Reflections on the readings for the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children (January 22, 2019): HEB 6:10-20; PS 111:1-2,4-5,9-10; MK 2:23-28
MISSIO offers “Preaching Mission,” as a homily help, providing connections to mission from the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
The U.S. bishops have declared this date a Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of the Unborn.
It is a time not only for prayer but also for acts of penance such as fasting and giving alms. In addition, many people participate in special events, demonstrations and marches around the country to encourage others to recognize the right to life.
The basic human dignity of every individual needs to be affirmed – starting with the most vulnerable – unborn children. Each one of us needs to recognize God as our Creator and to acknowledge that we were made in His image. We also need to treasure the love that Christ, who suffered and died for the salvation of all, has for each of His cherished children. “We who have taken refuge might be strongly encouraged to hold fast to the hope that lies before us. This we have as an anchor of the soul, sure and firm, which reaches into the interior behind the veil, where Jesus has entered on our behalf” (Hebrews 6:18-19). Let us make a sincere effort today to pray and work that the dignity of every person be respected from conception to natural death. We can also resolve to assist pregnant women who too often suffer without hope or help in extremely difficult situations.