Thoughts After Dobbs #3

Language is a big deal. The words we use matter. I heard on the radio recently a commentator reflect on the phrases that someone "got" an abortion, or "received" an abortion. He asked: What exactly did that woman "get" or "receive" when she walked into the clinic? (Or took those pills?) Actually, nothing. But she lost and gave up an awful lot - a little boy or little girl. Someone in my Bible Class commented that actually, what the woman received was a trauma to her body, mind, and soul. Good point. And after that, what she needs in the Gospel! For yes, there is forgiveness for abortion, as there is for each and every sin. These women who have gotten abortions - for whatever reason - need our care and the care of their Saviour. And it is incumbent on the church to provide this care. This is what we have to give - forgiveness, hope, and life in Jesus. We don't just want to stop abortions (and other kinds of killing), but help and care for these mothers, the elderly, and all who are endangered these days. (More on this in another future post.)

But more on the words we use . . . I used them above. Perhaps we should stop using the language of "fetus" in describing the life in utero. How about baby? How about little boy or little girl? That might, in a slow and steady way, help to humanize these little lives and help people begin thinking a little differently. Language matters.