My little son... Only 24 weeks... Not much more than a pound.
i carried him in my womb the day of our kick off rally. He made it impossible to button my coat, he also made it impossible to be mentally removed from the reason we gathered as he wiggled in my belly - a tiny life - unready for the outside world, stretching muscles, practicing movement, growing and developing.
After we had gathered in a dark little room we rented at the community center - sharing light and strength and encouragement for an hour, we drove to the vigil site. We climbed out of the protection of our vehicles onto that sanctified Holy Ground. Obeying the bubble zone court injunction to the letter, four by four we walked that side walk carrying simple signs and praying for a Holy God to intercede on behalf of the weak.
And my little son - tucked safe and warm inside the body of his mother was not counted in our number as i took my turn with three others.
It becomes easy in those moments to walk in silence - or to talk with those kindred spirits who walk beside us... but i forced myself to lift my voice - just a little - lest it be lost in the wind, "Oh, God..." i began, and my simple prayer - uttered in weakness floated over the grey icy ground we walked.
"Yes..." i heard beside me... Agreement. "Amen, Father..."
As i stumbled over my words and thoughts, this, "so be it" of the figure walking beside me strengthened my prayer and as my prayer subsided, his began. We slowed our stride as each of the four voiced our petition and we acknowledged with gratitude that we served a worthy God - one who neither slumbers nor sleeps.
And the motion of our walk - the swaying of his mother's body as i walked and prayed outside the clinic that brings death - rocked my tiny son to sleep.
"If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If i give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind, it does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." 1 Corinthians 13:1-8
"Dear Lord, your love is so far above my own, I confess that I am not sure how to love people i've never met. But your Word says we love because you first loved us (1 John 4:19). You love each woman entering and leaving every abortion facility. As I read the voices of some of those women today, I could sense their loss and pain. Today, I pray for the women in my town who have gone through the painful experience of abortion. I thank you for the people you have called to the front lines to stand and pray and be a witness that you love us all. Increase my love for those women today, Lord, and give me the boldness to take the next step in showing your love to them in concrete ways. Amen." (excerpt from book, 40 Days for Life, available on Amazon).
Showing posts with label events. Show all posts
Showing posts with label events. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Monday, February 18, 2013
Day 6 - How to pray
At our kick of rally, we covered some important topics - and as i was listening to Kay'd talk about prayer i thought that with her permission, maybe i should try to include some of what she shared here.
Kay'd has been praying at the Kensington abortion clinic for years - and one of the first things that she encouraged us to pray was for Jesus to be with us. I love that... so like a child to come to our Father and acknowledge our need of Him.
Secondly, we were encouraged to pray for protection. So many of our Catholic brothers and sisters have beautiful prayers memorized for the times when words fail. One of the ones that was mentioned at our meeting was a prayer for the protection of Archangel Michael:
Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the malice and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen.
This prayer reminds me of the story in Daniel chapter 10 when Michael responds to Daniel in his distress. We too, are heard...
We were encouraged to keep in mind all who need our prayers: (Feel free to add to this list!)
- those contemplating abortion.
- the conversion of abortionists, clinic workers, nurses and administration.
- those little ones suffering from the violence in the womb - the mothers and fathers of the aborted innocents and their extended families.
- political leaders, the court and justice systems, leaders of our health care system and all those in positions of power who allow this to continue.
- for tax laws to change - so that we are no longer forced to pay for something that is morally abhorrent.
- for the community passing by in traffic - that their conscience may be stirred to more fully consider and understand the abortion issue.
- for the protection of all those on the front lines of this spiritual battle.
Kay'd and her family are Catholic, and they often choose to pray the rosary. Others choose to read and meditate on psalms or other pieces of scripture, prayers that are sent out in our campaigns - or just listening to the Holy Spirit and praying as He leads...
There are times when silence is appropriate - listening, grieving, allowing ourselves to be transformed. Prayer is powerful that way. It doesn't have to be noisy and full of words - our Father understands our groans, our tears and our wordless pleadings too.
Prayer is the foundational aspect of this campaign - and worthy of our focus and care as we bring our desires to our Heavenly Father who loves each one.
"Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:19-20
"Dear Lord, you know what holds me back. It's easy to tell myself that I am too insignificant to make a difference, especially when you call me out of my comfort zone. I confess, Lord, that all too often I have trouble seeing past the rain on my windshield and forget - or even worse, don't believe - that you have a grand, eternal plan and that you call me to play my part in it. Today I pray for your strength in the simple obedience to step out no matter what the world things of me. And I ask you to give me the boldness to play my part in your work of saving lives. Amen."
Kay'd has been praying at the Kensington abortion clinic for years - and one of the first things that she encouraged us to pray was for Jesus to be with us. I love that... so like a child to come to our Father and acknowledge our need of Him.
Secondly, we were encouraged to pray for protection. So many of our Catholic brothers and sisters have beautiful prayers memorized for the times when words fail. One of the ones that was mentioned at our meeting was a prayer for the protection of Archangel Michael:
Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the malice and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen.
This prayer reminds me of the story in Daniel chapter 10 when Michael responds to Daniel in his distress. We too, are heard...
We were encouraged to keep in mind all who need our prayers: (Feel free to add to this list!)
- those contemplating abortion.
- the conversion of abortionists, clinic workers, nurses and administration.
- those little ones suffering from the violence in the womb - the mothers and fathers of the aborted innocents and their extended families.
- political leaders, the court and justice systems, leaders of our health care system and all those in positions of power who allow this to continue.
- for tax laws to change - so that we are no longer forced to pay for something that is morally abhorrent.
- for the community passing by in traffic - that their conscience may be stirred to more fully consider and understand the abortion issue.
- for the protection of all those on the front lines of this spiritual battle.
Kay'd and her family are Catholic, and they often choose to pray the rosary. Others choose to read and meditate on psalms or other pieces of scripture, prayers that are sent out in our campaigns - or just listening to the Holy Spirit and praying as He leads...
There are times when silence is appropriate - listening, grieving, allowing ourselves to be transformed. Prayer is powerful that way. It doesn't have to be noisy and full of words - our Father understands our groans, our tears and our wordless pleadings too.
Prayer is the foundational aspect of this campaign - and worthy of our focus and care as we bring our desires to our Heavenly Father who loves each one.
"Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:19-20
"Dear Lord, you know what holds me back. It's easy to tell myself that I am too insignificant to make a difference, especially when you call me out of my comfort zone. I confess, Lord, that all too often I have trouble seeing past the rain on my windshield and forget - or even worse, don't believe - that you have a grand, eternal plan and that you call me to play my part in it. Today I pray for your strength in the simple obedience to step out no matter what the world things of me. And I ask you to give me the boldness to play my part in your work of saving lives. Amen."
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Day 5 - Kick off rally today from 2-4pm!
I wanted to repost this beautiful, encouraging message about one of our previous rallies. They might seem like, "one extra thing" to do or to show up to - but really our gatherings with fellow prolifers are few - and these meetings are deeply encouraging! So, please, if you can make it - we'd love to see you there!
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God- this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12-1&2
"Dear Lord, give me the strength to set aside my own fears, desires, aspirations, and plans and conform to your perfect will. Help me with priorities- when it's a choice between some new comfort or diversion for myself and the possibility of saving a life, help me to see that choice in clear terms. And remind me to be grateful for all you're already doing, not only for me and my loved ones but for the unborn and the desperate families searching for answers. Help them to find the right ones. Amen." (from the book _40 Days for Life_ available on amazon).
**********************************************
by fawne
This battle we face--the fight for life--is often hard and lonely and even downright discouraging at times. I stand on the small space of sidewalk across from the abortion clinic and wonder if my prayers are doing one single thing. Often, there is no evidence of change. Despite my begging prayers that this woman, the next woman, the woman after her, will not open that door and walk inside...most of the time the door still opens and shuts behind her. I am across the street and cannot hear the dull thud of it closing...but I do not need to be over there to feel it right down to my core. Bang. Another death. Bang. Another defeat. Bang. Another loss.
The other day you gathered....those of you who ache to see abortion end....
And you worshiped God together.....
And shared the joys you have experienced and the change you have seen through prayer.
And I witnessed your faithfulness...and today as I sit and pound out words I think about twelve men who are a lot like you.
These men were asked to go on a mission. Is it not the same with you? With me? Hasn't God asked us to go on a mission for the unborn? To be a voice? To intercede with prayer? To plead for justice and to show love and mercy? Did you begin this mission with zeal and excitement?
These twelve men did. They charged into their "calling" and were faithful for 40 days. 40 DAYS! And then ten of them stopped focusing on the greatness of God and started focusing on the seemingly insurmountable walls of the enemy. (Numbers 13, 14)
Can you relate to that feeling? I sure can.
Sometimes I want to quit. I don't want the weight on my shoulders anymore. I don't want to pray without seeing results any longer. The wall I am asked to scale seems to high. The burden I'm called to bear feels too heavy. I cannot see the greatness of God anymore because I'm focused on the impossible-ness of the mission.
I have forgotten who my God is. I have quickly forgotten the way He rescued me from my enemy. I have forgotten that I use to be in BONDAGE but now I am FREE. I have forgotten the miracles, the parting of the Red Sea, the manna on the ground and the water gushing from the rock.
And here....in this hard place....this place of decision....what will I do? Will I choose to believe that the God who sent me on this mission is accomplishing His purpose or will I only see the clinic door as it opens and shuts....yet again?!
I want to be a Joshua. I want to be a Caleb. I want to believe, to be fully confident that the God who sends people on missions (whether it is to spy out a land or whether it is to pray for a miracle across the street from an abortion clinic)....this God, is the God of the impossible.
Last Saturday, I saw some Calebs and some Joshuas....and I take courage from their example. The "walls" we attempt to scale may be high. The enemy we fight against may be strong. But all my fears and insecurities crumble in the presence of the great I AM!
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God- this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12-1&2
"Dear Lord, give me the strength to set aside my own fears, desires, aspirations, and plans and conform to your perfect will. Help me with priorities- when it's a choice between some new comfort or diversion for myself and the possibility of saving a life, help me to see that choice in clear terms. And remind me to be grateful for all you're already doing, not only for me and my loved ones but for the unborn and the desperate families searching for answers. Help them to find the right ones. Amen." (from the book _40 Days for Life_ available on amazon).
**********************************************
by fawne
This battle we face--the fight for life--is often hard and lonely and even downright discouraging at times. I stand on the small space of sidewalk across from the abortion clinic and wonder if my prayers are doing one single thing. Often, there is no evidence of change. Despite my begging prayers that this woman, the next woman, the woman after her, will not open that door and walk inside...most of the time the door still opens and shuts behind her. I am across the street and cannot hear the dull thud of it closing...but I do not need to be over there to feel it right down to my core. Bang. Another death. Bang. Another defeat. Bang. Another loss.
The other day you gathered....those of you who ache to see abortion end....
And you worshiped God together.....
And shared the joys you have experienced and the change you have seen through prayer.
And I witnessed your faithfulness...and today as I sit and pound out words I think about twelve men who are a lot like you.
These men were asked to go on a mission. Is it not the same with you? With me? Hasn't God asked us to go on a mission for the unborn? To be a voice? To intercede with prayer? To plead for justice and to show love and mercy? Did you begin this mission with zeal and excitement?
These twelve men did. They charged into their "calling" and were faithful for 40 days. 40 DAYS! And then ten of them stopped focusing on the greatness of God and started focusing on the seemingly insurmountable walls of the enemy. (Numbers 13, 14)
Can you relate to that feeling? I sure can.
Sometimes I want to quit. I don't want the weight on my shoulders anymore. I don't want to pray without seeing results any longer. The wall I am asked to scale seems to high. The burden I'm called to bear feels too heavy. I cannot see the greatness of God anymore because I'm focused on the impossible-ness of the mission.
I have forgotten who my God is. I have quickly forgotten the way He rescued me from my enemy. I have forgotten that I use to be in BONDAGE but now I am FREE. I have forgotten the miracles, the parting of the Red Sea, the manna on the ground and the water gushing from the rock.
And here....in this hard place....this place of decision....what will I do? Will I choose to believe that the God who sent me on this mission is accomplishing His purpose or will I only see the clinic door as it opens and shuts....yet again?!
I want to be a Joshua. I want to be a Caleb. I want to believe, to be fully confident that the God who sends people on missions (whether it is to spy out a land or whether it is to pray for a miracle across the street from an abortion clinic)....this God, is the God of the impossible.
Last Saturday, I saw some Calebs and some Joshuas....and I take courage from their example. The "walls" we attempt to scale may be high. The enemy we fight against may be strong. But all my fears and insecurities crumble in the presence of the great I AM!
Saturday, February 16, 2013
day 4 - kick off event!
A message from our campaign director!
Hi all,
Just a reminder about our Kick-off celebration this Sunday, Feb 17, from 2-4 pm.
We will meet at the West Hillhurst Community Center (1940 6th Avenue NW), down the street from the Clinic, at 6th Ave and 19th St. Use the Arena entrance off the parking lot and immediately go up the stairs to the Arena viewing room.
There will be refreshments at the community center, and a great chance to fellowship and share. We have a lot of information we will be able to provide that I just can't do it any justice in an e-mail.
Folks have done a wonderful job maintaining a peaceful prayerful manner. Thank you. This is how we conduct ourselves. It diffuses all tension by calling upon the only true peace through Jesus, who suffered and died for us, and already has won our ultimate victory.
If we don't see you this Sunday, I hope you have a great weekend celebrating Family Day.
Dave
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. - Hebrew 12:1-2
Thank you, Lord, for the many ways you provide for me. For your daily provision of food, shelter, and other of life's necessities that, even if it doesn't come easily, does come when I need it. Thank you for the provision you make when I'm called to special challenges, such as 40 Days for Life. Continue to meet the needs of 40 Days for Life for financial support and for the energy and emotional resilience to stand and pray for long hours, often in the face of adversity. Help me to not take your provision for granted but rather to feel anew a humble and loving gratitude each time I experience it. Amen. (from the book, 40 Days for Life)
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Day 1 - We Open!
Here we go again!
i prayed today at the Kensington abortion clinic - and as the sun broke through the thick clouds and hit my upturned face, i knew that i was right where i was supposed to be. This vigil will be it's own unique transformative experience and i cannot wait to see what my Father has in store.
For anyone that is new, today i'd like to just share a few resources with you and welcome you as we undertake this beautiful, prayer-filled journey together.
If you are going to be taking part in our vigil, it would be great for you to take a look at our WEBSITE. We are hoping that our volunteers will read and agree to our CODE OF CONDUCT and make themselves aware of the limitations that are placed upon our vigil by the court injunction that limits our numbers and the locations we are allowed to pray. (For a copy of the court injunction, feel free to contact us! Or attend our opening celebration where we will go over the court injunction in detail.)
We are planning our opening celebration for this Sunday, February 17th from 2-4pm at the West Hillhurst Community Center (right down the road from the abortion clinic). Please come and join us as we go over some common questions and encourage each other in this beautiful time of outreach in the city of Calgary. (To help you find us, take the entrance just off the parking lot and climb the stairs to the viewing area above the arena - same location as in previous vigils!)
During the 40 days, i've decided to read and follow along in the new book by David Bereit and Shawn Carney titled, 40 Days for Life. It's a book of true stories that is beautifully encouraging and uplifting. i'll try to share some of what i glean from it here too as the opportunities arise.
As usual, we are accepting submissions to this blog - and we will be blogging daily throughout the 40 days as we seek to bring God glory as we pray for an end to abortion in Calgary where over 5000 abortions take place annually.
"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." - Romans 12:9-12
Heavenly Father, fill me with your zeal and fan the flame of my spiritual fervour, so that my heart is aligned with your heart. You are the God of life and the giver of life. You create life in the mother's womb. Every life is precious to you, fearfully and wonderfully made. For each of these next forty days, dear Lord, keep me joyful in hope and faithful in prayer for the unborn and for all those affected by the tragedy of abortion. Amen
(prayer excerpt from the book, 40 Days for Life)
i prayed today at the Kensington abortion clinic - and as the sun broke through the thick clouds and hit my upturned face, i knew that i was right where i was supposed to be. This vigil will be it's own unique transformative experience and i cannot wait to see what my Father has in store.
For anyone that is new, today i'd like to just share a few resources with you and welcome you as we undertake this beautiful, prayer-filled journey together.
If you are going to be taking part in our vigil, it would be great for you to take a look at our WEBSITE. We are hoping that our volunteers will read and agree to our CODE OF CONDUCT and make themselves aware of the limitations that are placed upon our vigil by the court injunction that limits our numbers and the locations we are allowed to pray. (For a copy of the court injunction, feel free to contact us! Or attend our opening celebration where we will go over the court injunction in detail.)
We are planning our opening celebration for this Sunday, February 17th from 2-4pm at the West Hillhurst Community Center (right down the road from the abortion clinic). Please come and join us as we go over some common questions and encourage each other in this beautiful time of outreach in the city of Calgary. (To help you find us, take the entrance just off the parking lot and climb the stairs to the viewing area above the arena - same location as in previous vigils!)
During the 40 days, i've decided to read and follow along in the new book by David Bereit and Shawn Carney titled, 40 Days for Life. It's a book of true stories that is beautifully encouraging and uplifting. i'll try to share some of what i glean from it here too as the opportunities arise.
As usual, we are accepting submissions to this blog - and we will be blogging daily throughout the 40 days as we seek to bring God glory as we pray for an end to abortion in Calgary where over 5000 abortions take place annually.
"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." - Romans 12:9-12
Heavenly Father, fill me with your zeal and fan the flame of my spiritual fervour, so that my heart is aligned with your heart. You are the God of life and the giver of life. You create life in the mother's womb. Every life is precious to you, fearfully and wonderfully made. For each of these next forty days, dear Lord, keep me joyful in hope and faithful in prayer for the unborn and for all those affected by the tragedy of abortion. Amen
(prayer excerpt from the book, 40 Days for Life)
Friday, November 2, 2012
Day 38 - You're Invited!
If you missed both our opening rally and our midpoint rally, you won't want to miss our closing celebration.
We are planning an encouraging afternoon from 2:30-4pm on Sunday, November 4th, 2012.
Following our short program including food, a panel discussion and sharing time, we'd like to do a prayer procession at the Kensington abortion clinic location. We will give information how that will work at the end of our program and invite you to meet us there for a time of corporate prayer.
More information to come... will you consider joining us?
We are planning an encouraging afternoon from 2:30-4pm on Sunday, November 4th, 2012.
Following our short program including food, a panel discussion and sharing time, we'd like to do a prayer procession at the Kensington abortion clinic location. We will give information how that will work at the end of our program and invite you to meet us there for a time of corporate prayer.
More information to come... will you consider joining us?
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Day 35 - closed doors
Repost from a previous campaign - we are counting down the final days of our vigil. If you have a story to share, please send it using the "contact us" tab at the top of this blog. We are planning our closing celebration for Sunday, November 4th, 2012 from 2:30-4pm. We'd love to see you there to celebrate what God has done during these 40 Days and to encourage each other to continue until we see an end to abortion.
*please note - we are having some issues with the event page for our closing celebration on facebook. It is not displaying the correct date and time - please spread the word that the correct time is the one noted above.
****************************************
i didn't make it to the kensington clinic until late in the afternoon. When i got there, the last cars were pulling out of the parking lot. The Canadian flag fluttered in the breeze beside me as i stood on the grass to pray.
At 5pm, a man brought out the garbage bags, and others closed the heavy gate that blocks the parking lot.
And as that building closed it's doors for the day... nurses drove home, business completed, jobs accomplished...
i stood on the street corner and prayed... that i would see the day that they would never open again.
*please note - we are having some issues with the event page for our closing celebration on facebook. It is not displaying the correct date and time - please spread the word that the correct time is the one noted above.
****************************************
At 5pm, a man brought out the garbage bags, and others closed the heavy gate that blocks the parking lot.
And as that building closed it's doors for the day... nurses drove home, business completed, jobs accomplished...
i stood on the street corner and prayed... that i would see the day that they would never open again.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Day 33 - october baby
A bunch of us from my church went and saw the movie October Baby on Saturday night. i didn't know what to expect - but the testimony at the end was a powerful story of God's forgiveness and redemptive love...
It was honestly - so - beautiful.
We'll be looking at having it play at another location in the near future - if you're interested, leave a comment and we'll keep you posted.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Day 32 - Do you believe?
Beautiful update and pictures from our midpoint rally! Mark our closing celebration on your calendar: Sunday, November 4th 2012 from 2:30-4 at the West Hillhurst Community Center. See you there!
**********************************************
by fawne
This battle we face--the fight for life--is often hard and lonely and even downright discouraging at times. I stand on the small space of sidewalk across from the abortion clinic and wonder if my prayers are doing one single thing. Often, there is no evidence of change. Despite my begging prayers that this woman, the next woman, the woman after her, will not open that door and walk inside...most of the time the door still opens and shuts behind her. I am across the street and cannot hear the dull thud of it closing...but I do not need to be over there to feel it right down to my core. Bang. Another death. Bang. Another defeat. Bang. Another loss.
The other day you gathered....those of you who ache to see abortion end....
And you worshiped God together.....
And shared the joys you have experienced and the change you have seen through prayer.
And I witnessed your faithfulness...and today as I sit and pound out words I think about twelve men who are a lot like you.
These men were asked to go on a mission. Is it not the same with you? With me? Hasn't God asked us to go on a mission for the unborn? To be a voice? To intercede with prayer? To plead for justice and to show love and mercy? Did you begin this mission with zeal and excitement?
These twelve men did. They charged into their "calling" and were faithful for 40 days. 40 DAYS! And then ten of them stopped focusing on the greatness of God and started focusing on the seemingly insurmountable walls of the enemy. (Numbers 13, 14)
Can you relate to that feeling? I sure can.
Sometimes I want to quit. I don't want the weight on my shoulders anymore. I don't want to pray without seeing results any longer. The wall I am asked to scale seems to high. The burden I'm called to bear feels too heavy. I cannot see the greatness of God anymore because I'm focused on the impossible-ness of the mission.
I have forgotten who my God is. I have quickly forgotten the way He rescued me from my enemy. I have forgotten that I use to be in BONDAGE but now I am FREE. I have forgotten the miracles, the parting of the Red Sea, the manna on the ground and the water gushing from the rock.
And here....in this hard place....this place of decision....what will I do? Will I choose to believe that the God who sent me on this mission is accomplishing His purpose or will I only see the clinic door as it opens and shuts....yet again?!
I want to be a Joshua. I want to be a Caleb. I want to believe, to be fully confident that the God who sends people on missions (whether it is to spy out a land or whether it is to pray for a miracle across the street from an abortion clinic)....this God, is the God of the impossible.
Last Saturday, I saw some Calebs and some Joshuas....and I take courage from their example. The "walls" we attempt to scale may be high. The enemy we fight against may be strong. But all my fears and insecurities crumble in the presence of the great I AM!
**********************************************
by fawne
This battle we face--the fight for life--is often hard and lonely and even downright discouraging at times. I stand on the small space of sidewalk across from the abortion clinic and wonder if my prayers are doing one single thing. Often, there is no evidence of change. Despite my begging prayers that this woman, the next woman, the woman after her, will not open that door and walk inside...most of the time the door still opens and shuts behind her. I am across the street and cannot hear the dull thud of it closing...but I do not need to be over there to feel it right down to my core. Bang. Another death. Bang. Another defeat. Bang. Another loss.
The other day you gathered....those of you who ache to see abortion end....
And you worshiped God together.....
And shared the joys you have experienced and the change you have seen through prayer.
And I witnessed your faithfulness...and today as I sit and pound out words I think about twelve men who are a lot like you.
These men were asked to go on a mission. Is it not the same with you? With me? Hasn't God asked us to go on a mission for the unborn? To be a voice? To intercede with prayer? To plead for justice and to show love and mercy? Did you begin this mission with zeal and excitement?
These twelve men did. They charged into their "calling" and were faithful for 40 days. 40 DAYS! And then ten of them stopped focusing on the greatness of God and started focusing on the seemingly insurmountable walls of the enemy. (Numbers 13, 14)
Can you relate to that feeling? I sure can.
Sometimes I want to quit. I don't want the weight on my shoulders anymore. I don't want to pray without seeing results any longer. The wall I am asked to scale seems to high. The burden I'm called to bear feels too heavy. I cannot see the greatness of God anymore because I'm focused on the impossible-ness of the mission.
I have forgotten who my God is. I have quickly forgotten the way He rescued me from my enemy. I have forgotten that I use to be in BONDAGE but now I am FREE. I have forgotten the miracles, the parting of the Red Sea, the manna on the ground and the water gushing from the rock.
And here....in this hard place....this place of decision....what will I do? Will I choose to believe that the God who sent me on this mission is accomplishing His purpose or will I only see the clinic door as it opens and shuts....yet again?!
I want to be a Joshua. I want to be a Caleb. I want to believe, to be fully confident that the God who sends people on missions (whether it is to spy out a land or whether it is to pray for a miracle across the street from an abortion clinic)....this God, is the God of the impossible.
Last Saturday, I saw some Calebs and some Joshuas....and I take courage from their example. The "walls" we attempt to scale may be high. The enemy we fight against may be strong. But all my fears and insecurities crumble in the presence of the great I AM!
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Day 30 - lifechain update
Our friends at Lifechain (Calgary) sent out the update below. Were you able to be involved in this public stand for life this year?:
***********************************
We had a great LifeChain, with excellent weather and about 340 people participating.
Some excellent pictures were taken, which we will add to our web page:
www.lifechaincalgary.org
In the future we will move the date if it falls on the Thanksgiving long weekend.
We were assisted by the people from '40 Days for Life'. They currently have a prayer campaign underway.
If you wish to participate you can contact them at:
www.40daysforlife.com/calgary/
Thank you for joining us.
LifeChain committee 2012
***********************************
We had a great LifeChain, with excellent weather and about 340 people participating.
Some excellent pictures were taken, which we will add to our web page:
www.lifechaincalgary.org
In the future we will move the date if it falls on the Thanksgiving long weekend.
We were assisted by the people from '40 Days for Life'. They currently have a prayer campaign underway.
If you wish to participate you can contact them at:
www.40daysforlife.com/calgary/
Thank you for joining us.
LifeChain committee 2012
Monday, October 22, 2012
update from our midpoint rally
We had our midpoint rally on Saturday and we had a fantastic turn out - especially considering the snowy, rainy conditions we had here in Calgary!
We had some music, food, an update from our Campaign Director and an encouraging talk from Jojo Ruba, the executive director of Faith Beyond Belief about handling adversity.
Several people shared their stories from the sidewalk - and was it ever beautifully edifying to hear their shared passion for the little ones!
If you missed out, we are planning our CLOSING CELEBRATION for Sunday, November 4th! Please join us as we celebrate what God has done in these 40 days as we've fasted and prayed, held our peaceful vigil at the abortion clinic and made every effort to reach out into our community!
Until then, there are still many spots to fill in our VIGIL CALENDAR and you still have the opportunity to join us in this prayerful effort!
We had some music, food, an update from our Campaign Director and an encouraging talk from Jojo Ruba, the executive director of Faith Beyond Belief about handling adversity.
Several people shared their stories from the sidewalk - and was it ever beautifully edifying to hear their shared passion for the little ones!
If you missed out, we are planning our CLOSING CELEBRATION for Sunday, November 4th! Please join us as we celebrate what God has done in these 40 days as we've fasted and prayed, held our peaceful vigil at the abortion clinic and made every effort to reach out into our community!
Until then, there are still many spots to fill in our VIGIL CALENDAR and you still have the opportunity to join us in this prayerful effort!
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Message about our midpoint rally!!
Hello everyone,
How does it feel to do something for a cause that is near and dear to
your heart, like praying to end abortion with the 40 Days for Life
campaign right here in Calgary?
Well, let's get together and celebrate!
Our mid-point celebration is this Saturday, October 20th, 2:30 - 4:00
PM, at the West Hillhurst Community center, at 6th Ave and 19th St, NW
(down the street from the Kensington Abortion Clinic).
We have the same room rented out, the Arena viewing room, accessible
on the second floor, stairs closest to the side entrance by the
parking lot. Don't go in the front entrance, you'll get turned
around.
We will be there, and will share experiences, sing, give an update on
the campaign so far, etc.
Come and meet everyone else that is participating in the Prayer Vigil.
Sometimes the only people you meet or see are those that are in the
one-hour time slot before or after you. But now you can meet and talk
to more like-minded folks.
Haven't had a chance to partipate in the vigil yet? That's OK. Come
and get some information, and find out what this thing is all about.
Look forward to seeing you there!
Dave (Campaign Director)
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Day 12
Have you thought of attending LIFE CHAIN this year? It's happening here in Calgary TODAY on Sunday, October 7th, 2012. It's from 2-4pm on MacLeod Trail. You can find more information HERE.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Kicking off our sixth campaign
Hello everyone,
And welcome aboard to the new folks! Our e-mail list has grown larger than
ever, and is now includes almost 250. Thank you, and welcome to every
one of you.
The 40 Days for Life is beginning today, Sept 26, and we already
can see that this will be our most successful one to date.
The vigil calendar is filling up nicely, particularly on the days that
are blocked out for different groups or organizations.
Please use the Vigil Calendar (at www.40DaysforLife.com/calgary) so we
can have the optimal coverage.
Please participate as much as you can to this effort. The effect on
our community will be immeasurable!
We had a great Kick-off meeting last Saturday, and
55 people attended and were treated to a wonderful program including
opening/closing prayer by Pat Worsley from First Alliance Church,
prayers by Jojo Ruba from Faith Beyond Belief Ministry, Ken
Vandermeullen from Thornhill Baptist, and Shafer Parker from Hawkwood
Baptist Church. We had Paige playing keyboard and singing, and then
she also led us in song. It was very uplifting.
Thank you everyone who came. Don't miss our mid-point rally on
October 20th, same time, same location. (West Hillhurst Community Centre).
With 250 folks on our e-mail list, and only 480 hours of vigil (40
days x 12 hours a day), do you realize that if everyone participates
just two hours, every hour will be covered? And if everyone prays
four hours during the entire vigil, then every hour will have at least
two people.
How great is that?
I included our 40 Days for Life flyer, a site map I created, and then
the actual 2002 Court Injunction, in case anyone is interested.
Thank you and God Bless.
For the little ones,
Dave Odland - campaign director
Calgary 40 Days for Life
(Attachments available upon request).
"Like" our facebook page to receive regular updates - or contact us to get your name and email on regular outgoing list! We can't wait to see what God will do during this campaign!
And welcome aboard to the new folks! Our e-mail list has grown larger than
ever, and is now includes almost 250. Thank you, and welcome to every
one of you.
The 40 Days for Life is beginning today, Sept 26, and we already
can see that this will be our most successful one to date.
The vigil calendar is filling up nicely, particularly on the days that
are blocked out for different groups or organizations.
Please use the Vigil Calendar (at www.40DaysforLife.com/calgary) so we
can have the optimal coverage.
Please participate as much as you can to this effort. The effect on
our community will be immeasurable!
We had a great Kick-off meeting last Saturday, and
55 people attended and were treated to a wonderful program including
opening/closing prayer by Pat Worsley from First Alliance Church,
prayers by Jojo Ruba from Faith Beyond Belief Ministry, Ken
Vandermeullen from Thornhill Baptist, and Shafer Parker from Hawkwood
Baptist Church. We had Paige playing keyboard and singing, and then
she also led us in song. It was very uplifting.
Thank you everyone who came. Don't miss our mid-point rally on
October 20th, same time, same location. (West Hillhurst Community Centre).
With 250 folks on our e-mail list, and only 480 hours of vigil (40
days x 12 hours a day), do you realize that if everyone participates
just two hours, every hour will be covered? And if everyone prays
four hours during the entire vigil, then every hour will have at least
two people.
How great is that?
I included our 40 Days for Life flyer, a site map I created, and then
the actual 2002 Court Injunction, in case anyone is interested.
Thank you and God Bless.
For the little ones,
Dave Odland - campaign director
Calgary 40 Days for Life
(Attachments available upon request).
"Like" our facebook page to receive regular updates - or contact us to get your name and email on regular outgoing list! We can't wait to see what God will do during this campaign!
Monday, August 27, 2012
Another version of our statement of peace
I didn't realize that there were two different statements of peace - take a look at both of them. We'd love your feedback.
I testify to the following:
1. I will only pursue peaceful solutions to the violence of abortion when volunteering with the Calgary 40 Days for Life campaign.
2. I will show compassion and reflect Christ’s love to all abortion facility employees, volunteers, customers, and the general public.
3. I understand that acting in a violent or harmful manner immediately and completely disassociates me from the Calgary 40 Days for Life campaign
4. I am in no way associated with the Kensington abortion facility /Planned Parenthood or its affiliates by way of employment, informant, volunteer, client, or otherwise While standing on the designated sidewalk across and east of the Kensington abortion facility:
5. I will abide by the "Bubble" zone ruling and stay in designated areas specified by the Court Injunction, with a maximum of 4 persons (any age) on the sidewalk.
6. I will not have any graphic material on signs/placards that I carry.
7. I will only talk to the public if approached first while conducting the Calgary 40DFL vigil.
8. I will not look at any employee, clientele, or at the abortion facility itself in a threatening manner.
9. I will not obstruct the sidewalk traffic or go into the street while participating in the Calgary 40DFL prayer vigil.
10. I will closely attend to any children I bring to the prayer vigil
11. I will cooperate with local city authorities and immediately modify any behavior as directed.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Statement of Peace
I pledge to conduct myself in a peaceful manner, responding with humility and love.
I pledge to conduct myself in a prayerful, positive manner with a compassionate attitude.
I pledge that I am familiar with the vigil location and key guidelines imposed by the Court Injunction. I will conduct myself in a lawful and considerate manner at all times while participating int he 40 Days for Life Campaign.
- Only 4 persons (any ages) on the sidewalk across 5th Ave from clinic by the park.
- No further West than the edge of the park.
- If more than 4 persons, overflow can be in park, between the playground and the
soccer field, but no signs or placards in this area.
- Do stand or walk on the other side [North] of the fence from the sidewalk in the park.
- Do not talk to anyone unless approached first. Do not talk to school-aged children at all.
I pledge to orient any personal guest to the vigil site, and gently remind other participants who may not know the vigil location and the 4 person limit on 5th Avenue.
I pledge to keep my commitment to the hours I have signed up for, or find someone who can, or call 403-467-6961.
Thank you, and God Bless.
I pledge to conduct myself in a prayerful, positive manner with a compassionate attitude.
I pledge that I am familiar with the vigil location and key guidelines imposed by the Court Injunction. I will conduct myself in a lawful and considerate manner at all times while participating int he 40 Days for Life Campaign.
- Only 4 persons (any ages) on the sidewalk across 5th Ave from clinic by the park.
- No further West than the edge of the park.
- If more than 4 persons, overflow can be in park, between the playground and the
soccer field, but no signs or placards in this area.
- Do stand or walk on the other side [North] of the fence from the sidewalk in the park.
- Do not talk to anyone unless approached first. Do not talk to school-aged children at all.
I pledge to orient any personal guest to the vigil site, and gently remind other participants who may not know the vigil location and the 4 person limit on 5th Avenue.
I pledge to keep my commitment to the hours I have signed up for, or find someone who can, or call 403-467-6961.
Thank you, and God Bless.
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Fall Dates
We have our new fall dates posted at the top of the blog now! Please keep these dates in mind as we prepare for another 40 days for life campaign in Calgary.
Talk about it with your friends, in your small groups, with your family & at your church & consider ways that you could get involved!
September 26th - November 4th 2012 - hope to see you there!
Talk about it with your friends, in your small groups, with your family & at your church & consider ways that you could get involved!
September 26th - November 4th 2012 - hope to see you there!
Sunday, April 1, 2012
day 40 - our vigil comes to it's close
Thank you, thank you, thank you... to all who have prayed, ached, spread the word and spoken out about the injustice of abortion in these past 40 Days for Life. Your contribution might feel small, but all these small gestures are making a large motion in the shift in the general public's perceptions of this issue.
At our meeting yesterday, our speaker shared about being ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20) for the prolife message. She told us how we needed to keep three things in mind when sharing this message; knowledge, wisdom and character - knowledge of the issue at hand, wisdom in how we share it, and character - to share it in such a way that others can receive it. She used as her illustration how Jesus told the story of The Good Samaritan in response to the question, "who is my neighbour?" - how he engaged the man by asking questions, telling a story and asking another question to allow the man to come to the correct conclusion on his own.
Her talk was encouraging - and then we took some time to discuss specific situations and conversations we've had over these past days - and what we can learn from them.
We had a good campaign during this season of Lent - and i can't wait to see what God will continue to do as we prepare for our vigil in the fall.
As always - if you have a prolife story to share for this blog - to serve to encourage others, please send it to me. i'd love to keep posting sporadically between vigils. We don't have the dates for our fall vigil yet, but i'll keep you posted & look forward to having you join us then!!
At our meeting yesterday, our speaker shared about being ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20) for the prolife message. She told us how we needed to keep three things in mind when sharing this message; knowledge, wisdom and character - knowledge of the issue at hand, wisdom in how we share it, and character - to share it in such a way that others can receive it. She used as her illustration how Jesus told the story of The Good Samaritan in response to the question, "who is my neighbour?" - how he engaged the man by asking questions, telling a story and asking another question to allow the man to come to the correct conclusion on his own.
Her talk was encouraging - and then we took some time to discuss specific situations and conversations we've had over these past days - and what we can learn from them.
We had a good campaign during this season of Lent - and i can't wait to see what God will continue to do as we prepare for our vigil in the fall.
As always - if you have a prolife story to share for this blog - to serve to encourage others, please send it to me. i'd love to keep posting sporadically between vigils. We don't have the dates for our fall vigil yet, but i'll keep you posted & look forward to having you join us then!!
Saturday, March 31, 2012
You're invited! - day 39
by Dave
Hello,
I would like to personally invite you to our Closing Celebration for
the end of the Spring 40 Days for Life campaign.
We have arranged to have Alanna Gomez give a Pro-Life Apologetics
overview for us. We also be able to fellowship and swap stories of
our adventures.
When: Saturday, March 31, 4:00 - 5:30
Where: across the park - where everyone gets the signs
If you can bring a snack to share, great, but this is not a
requirement. Please just come join us.
See you then,
Dave
Committe member,
Calgary 40 DFL
Hello,
I would like to personally invite you to our Closing Celebration for
the end of the Spring 40 Days for Life campaign.
We have arranged to have Alanna Gomez give a Pro-Life Apologetics
overview for us. We also be able to fellowship and swap stories of
our adventures.
When: Saturday, March 31, 4:00 - 5:30
Where: across the park - where everyone gets the signs
If you can bring a snack to share, great, but this is not a
requirement. Please just come join us.
See you then,
Dave
Committe member,
Calgary 40 DFL
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Day 30 - Save the date!
The little organizational committee for 40 Days for life is an eclectic ecumenical group of individuals. We have quick meetings, share ideas, problem solve, plan and pray together. We're not overly special or gifted... we're not crazy brilliant or powerfully persuasive.
But we're fairly consistent.
This little group has just a tiny bit of boldness - swaddled in heaping mounds of love...
We have truth on our side, & a quiet confidence borne of the knowledge of that truth.
This group of individuals that is small in number - has been an enormous source of encouragement for me over the past year. i'm so grateful to God for introducing me to others who are passionate about seeing an end to abortion, talking about & grieving for the little lives lost & the mamas (who we love too) - that were left without hope, believing that they didn't have a better choice.
So, to celebrate what the organizers (who live in eyesight of the Kensington clinic) are saying has been our most successful campaign so far - we want to invite you to a little victory party.
We're hoping to have a couple of speakers - hopefully a little bit of prolife apologetics and a lot of encouragement from gathering together with other believers to discuss the fruit of our campaign. It's chill - at a house - bring a snack to share, or don't. We'd love to meet you!
Date: Saturday, March 31st
Time: 4-5pm
Information: Contact Dave - his email is dave.odland (at) gmail.com
But we're fairly consistent.
This little group has just a tiny bit of boldness - swaddled in heaping mounds of love...
We have truth on our side, & a quiet confidence borne of the knowledge of that truth.
This group of individuals that is small in number - has been an enormous source of encouragement for me over the past year. i'm so grateful to God for introducing me to others who are passionate about seeing an end to abortion, talking about & grieving for the little lives lost & the mamas (who we love too) - that were left without hope, believing that they didn't have a better choice.
So, to celebrate what the organizers (who live in eyesight of the Kensington clinic) are saying has been our most successful campaign so far - we want to invite you to a little victory party.
We're hoping to have a couple of speakers - hopefully a little bit of prolife apologetics and a lot of encouragement from gathering together with other believers to discuss the fruit of our campaign. It's chill - at a house - bring a snack to share, or don't. We'd love to meet you!
Date: Saturday, March 31st
Time: 4-5pm
Information: Contact Dave - his email is dave.odland (at) gmail.com
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