Many of us who consider ourselves pro-life are convinced that if those who choose abortion could only see the truth – that they are carrying a life inside of them – then they will do what is right: choose life. But there are still nearly one million abortions every year, despite the prevalence of ultrasounds.
As I considered this, I thought of another life and death situation that has application for us: the Apostle Peter’s denial of Jesus Christ.
Even though Peter was one of Jesus’ most committed followers, after Jesus was arrested, we find Peter trying to avoid any association with Him. After Peter denies Jesus three times, Jesus looks straight at Peter and he remembers Jesus’ words, “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.”
Peter fled in despair. Peter had “aborted” Jesus.
Abortion, at its essence, is a reflection of a worldview as old as sin. Peter knew that Jesus was the Way, the Truth, and the Life. But at that moment, Jesus was a life worth sacrificing.
Because Peter was alone and afraid, it was easier for him to deny what he knew was true.
Many women and men who have aborted their little ones have much in common with Peter; they knew that their baby was a life, but because of their circumstances, their baby was a life worth sacrificing.
Therefore, it’s instructive that when Jesus restored Peter in John 21, his argument was not, “Am I a life?” But rather, “Am I the love of your life?” Jesus appealed to a covenant relationship very similar to the one parents should have with their children, especially in the womb.
Once restored, Peter never “aborted” Jesus again. He faithfully shared the Gospel and sacrificed his life on a cross to make disciples for Jesus Christ. The Easter “abortion” became an Easter miracle.
Peter’s story shows us how we can lovingly reach out to those who remain blinded, just as we were, until by God’s grace, our eyes were opened. For we too, like Peter, were once deniers of the Way, the Truth, and the Life…until we weren’t.
Blessings to You,
Roland C. Warren
Care Net President & CEO
