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Life Lines for Dec. 2, 2007
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
God is so AWESOME! He has given scientists the knowledge and ability to reprogram adult stem cells to revert to their embryonic form. This is fantastic news for both the scientific and pro-life community.
The team studies conducted by scientists in both Wisconsin and Japan have found a way that human skin cells can be used to make pluripotent stem cells utilizing all of the features of human embryonic stem cells. The reprogramming process also provides a way to create individually tailored transplant tissues which is unlikely to be rejected by the patient’s own immune system. In other words, stem cells should be perfectly matched to the patient and the immune system should not attack it.
But beware! Even though pro-life groups across the country are heralding the discovery as great news, pro-choice lawmakers and celebrities are not going to go away quietly on this issue. Sen. Tom Harkin of Iowa is one lawmaker who is leading the charge to NOT abandon embryonic stem cell research because he believes that killing a human and obtaining those stem cells offers more powerful and promising results.
Pro-life Christians beware. This issue is far from over and we must all remain vigilant and informed in order to help repel attacks from those who do not value human life. God’s own word tells us that all life has value and because of this, I have a belief that God will never allow success with embryonic stem cell research.
Psalm 64: 2-10. Hide me from the conspiracy of the wicked, from that noisy crowd of evildoers. They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their words like deadly arrows. They shoot from ambush at the innocent man; they shoot at him suddenly, without fear. They encourage each other in evil plans, they talk about hiding their snares; they say, "Who will see them? They plot injustice and say, "We have devised a perfect plan!" Surely the mind and heart of man are cunning. But God will shoot them with arrows; suddenly they will be struck down. He will turn their own tongues against them and bring them to ruin; all who see them will shake their heads in scorn. All mankind will fear; they will proclaim the works of God and ponder what he has done. Let the righteous rejoice in the LORD and take refuge in him; let all the upright in heart praise him!
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Life Lines for Dec. 9, 2007
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
On Tuesday, Nov. 20, members of Illinois Valley Lutherans for Life met in Salem’s Fellowship Hall. State Rep. Jim Watson was the guest speaker for the evening addressing Illinois legislation and life issues. Some questions were raised that he did not have answers for at the time and has since responded to those questions.
First: Is Speaker of the House Michael Madigan pro-life? Answer is yes.
Second: Is there currently a law titled the Infants Born Alive Act? The answer to this is no. The House overwhelming voted to pass the measure with 114 yes and 2 no earlier in 2007. The bill was then sent to the Senate where it was shoved into committee and never acted upon. That is where the bill will stay. Why? Because our Senate President, Emil Jones, is pro-choice (death) and he has the power to stop the bill in its tracks, which he has done. Essentially, the bill would protect infants who were born alive during and abortion attempt and give them the same rights that all humans have. And yes, it does happen and is not uncommon for an infant to be born alive during an abortion process. It is simply standard procedure for that infant to be neglected until death occurs, usually within a few hours. Abortions are performed in the early months of pregnancy so the chance of the infant surviving outside the womb without medical intervention is nearly 0%. Jill Stanek, a former nurse at Christ Hospital, Chicago, blew the whistle on this practice a few years ago and lost her job in the process. Since then, she has become a pro-life voice crying out for the unborn. It is what Ms. Stanek has been called to do and what all pro-life Christians should be doing. Pray for an end to abortion. Boldly proclaim you are pro-life. Vote pro-life. Speak up for the unborn and elderly, the most vulnerable among us. Support the work of the pro-life cause through your money and your actions.
Psalms 24:11. “Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter.”
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Life Lines for December 16, 2007
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
I’m sure most everyone knows that former Illinois Rep. Henry Hyde passed away on Nov. 29. But, you may not be aware of the work Rep. Hyde did on behalf of the unborn. Because of the Hyde Amendment, it’s been estimated that hundreds of thousands of abortions that could have occurred since 1976 didn’t happen. His work made sure that American taxpayer money didn’t pay for millions of abortions. Prior to his death, Rep. Hyde was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest honor the President can award an American citizen. Since then, Rep. Peter Roskam, another Illinois Republican, has introduced H.Res. 843, a resolution honoring Rep. Henry Hyde for his work as a pro-life champion. We can help Rep. Roskam in his efforts to honor Rep. Hyde by contacting our own representatives and encourage our members of Congress to ask that the Democrat leadership bring the resolution before the House for a vote.
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Life Lines for December 23, 2007
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
I know most everyone has heard the saying “Saving the best for last.” But, have you ever thought about that saying and creation? God created everything in six days, and saved creating man and woman until last. Everything that God created in the days prior to creating man and woman was for the use of mankind and only man was created in the image of God. God loves man with an unconditional love and all human life is precious to God from the unborn to the elderly and disabled. God and God only gives life!
God proved His love for us, and ALL humans, when our Lord came down from heaven and became man through the Holy Spirit by the Virgin Mary. Hebrews 2:16. For surely it is not angels He helps, but Abraham's descendants. He didn’t have to do this because we, as sinners, certainly didn’t deserve this selfless act of love. But, because of God’s love for ALL humans, He became man. He lived and suffered, was tempted but remained sinless and died on the cross to destroy the power of the devil and grant all believers eternal life. Christ offered Himself as a sacrifice for our sins. His death set all believers free from the bondage of sin. The purpose of Jesus’ entire ministry was For Life! God created and sustains Life! Jesus became human at the moment of conception and lived in Mary’s womb until the time for Him to be born. It’s an awesome thought when one considers that our Lord and Savior chose to enter the world the same way we all entered the world … through our mother’s womb. This is God’s plan for all humans and we are all created and known to God, both body and soul, upon the moment of conception. So why is abortion (legalized killing of humans) still happening in our nation? Let your support and conviction to help end the slaughter of the unborn be your best and lasting Christmas gift to Jesus.
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Life Lines for January 6, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Since this is a presidential election year, there will be a lot of discussion about the devastating Roe vs. Wade decision of 1973. But, what is Roe vs. Wade and what does it really entail?
Roe vs. Wade was an historic and tragic U.S. Supreme Court decision which essentially overturned a Texas interpretation of abortion law and made abortion legal in the U.S. This decision meant that a woman, along with her doctor, could choose abortion in earlier months of pregnancy without restriction, and with restrictions in later months. All this was based on the right to privacy.
All state laws that had previously limited a woman’s access to abortions during the first trimester of pregnancy were invalidated by this decision. State laws which had limited access to abortion during the second trimester were upheld only when the restrictions were for the purpose of protecting the health of the mother. The Doe vs. Bolton decision deemed it legal to abort a baby, at any time, for virtually any reason, right up until time of delivery. The Court said that abortion could be performed: ". . . in the light of all factors - physical, emotional, psychological, familial, and the woman’s age - relevant to the well being of the patient. All these factors may relate to health." (This broad interpretation of a “mother’s health” included most everything except a hangnail). What I see as a real problem with these various reasons for an abortion include too many problems that stem from social reasons and not health reasons. Every OB doctor that I have ever questioned about “mother’s health” has yet to have a case of needing to abort a child in order to save the mother. The exception to that rule would be a tubal pregnancy which requires surgery and offers absolutely no chance for the child to survive. Roe vs. Wade legalized abortion in the United States, which previously was not legal at all in many states and was limited by law in other states. It is so very important that all Christians acknowledge and understand abortion for what it is and what it does. It is against the will of God. The subject of Roe vs. Wade will continue in next week’s article.
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Life Lines for January 13, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Last week I addressed the subject of Roe vs. Wade and what it means. This week is a continuation of that subject. The U.S. Supreme Court made a tragic and devastation decision, and most agree, an unconstitutional decision. But, what possible reason did the Court have for such a devastating decision? Well, it seems that Roe vs. Wade was decided primarily on the Ninth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, a part of the Bill of Rights. The Court’s decision in this case was that the Ninth Amendment, in stating that “the enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people,” protected a person’s right to privacy. If you repeal Roe nothing happens. The overturning would just ALLOW states to make new laws. It does not make abortion illegal. It just lets the states decide. It goes back into the political process and to the states. What you would probably get is abortion available but with harsher restrictions, which more or less reflects the majority of Americans’ views. Some states would have easier, some stricter laws. There would be plenty for both sides to complain about and they could work through the democratic process to make changes. However, in our own state of Illinois, I predict little or no change in abortion laws with the current makeup of Democratic leadership in the majority.
Norma McCorvey, plaintiff in the case, was the Jane Roe alias on whose behalf the suit was originally filed, alleging that the abortion law in Texas violated her constitutional rights and the rights of other women. The defendant in the case was the DA of Dallas County, Texas, Mr. Henry B. Wade. The Doe of Doe vs. Bolton was Sandra Cano. Both Norma McCorvey and Sandra Cano have both become pro-life since the decision to allow the killing of the unborn.
Serving on the U.S. Supreme Court and members of the majority rule on the case were: Harry Blackmum, William J. Brennan, Chief Justice Warren Burger, William O. Douglas, Thurgood Marshall, Lewis Powell and Potter Stewart. The majority opinion was written by Harry Blackmum. Dissenting opinions were written by William Rehnquist and Byron White.
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Life Lines for January 20, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
There are dates throughout American history which resonate with violence and destruction of human life. For instance: December 7, 1941, the attack on Pearl Harbor; November 22, 1963, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy; April 19, 1995, the Oklahoma City bombing and September 11, 2001, the terrorists attack on U.S. soil. Those who lived through the above mentioned events find it common to be able to recall exactly what they were doing when they heard news of the tragic events.
But, there’s a date in American history which signifies another devastating event. On January 22, 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down its ruling on Roe v. Wade. This divisive decision granted the “right” for a woman to kill her unborn child, a life that was growing within her.
January 22, 2008 marks the 35th anniversary of this devastating decision and the killing of nearly 50 million unborn children. Yet, even after 35 years, there are still people who remain blissfully ignorant of Roe v. Wade and the destruction it has wrought on our nation. The deaths of the unborn and the victims left behind far outnumber the total lives lost in all U.S. wars combined. Yet, many people fail to acknowledge the fact that Roe v. Wade sparked a war which has been raging for 35 years now. A war propagated by a culture of death, leaving behind a battleground strewn with the bodies of innocent human babies.
Medical technology has proven over the past 35 years that life, human life, beings at conception. New 4D ultrasound clearly reveals a human baby growing in the womb. Unfortunately, the U.S. Supreme Court has not kept up with the latest technological advances. Roe v. Wade ruled that babies in the womb are to be denied personhood, thereby they are denied their most basic right … the right to life.
As president of Lutherans for Life of Illinois I feel it is my most basic duty to help educate people on Roe v. Wade, on the abortion industry and all forces that threaten the sanctity of human life. There is power in knowledge and the more people who come to recognize the evil of the abortion industry, the faster our nation will turn from this senseless destruction of human life. The pro-abortion advocates are made up of mainstream media, radical feminists and liberal politicians do little to contain their zeal in supporting the right to kill unborn children. They may try to veil the language into phrases such as keeping abortion “safe, rare and legal” but it doesn’t change the fact that they favor allowing the killing of unborn children. They will celebrate January 22, 2008 as a measure of their success in a 35 year killing operation. The supporters of human life will view January 22, 2008 as a national day of shame and mourning the senseless loss of human life while praying for the day when our nation once again values all human life.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from the wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14.
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Life Lines for January 27, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Is having a baby damaging to our planet? Well, some women think so and have taken drastic measures to ensure that they never have children. Meet Toni Vernelli who lives in the UK. At a very young age, Toni decided that she would never have a child because she believed it would do too much harm to our planet. “Every person who is born uses more food, more water, more land, more fossil fuels, more trees and produce more rubbish, more pollution, more greenhouse gases, and adds to the problem of overpopulation” she said. This is an extreme view for such a young person to have about their environment, but Toni, like so many other radical environmentalists, worships the earth as her religion. (God instructs us to be fruitful and populate the earth.) Toni searched for a doctor to sterilize her, but had difficulty in finding one who would perform the surgery on someone so young, 21 when she started searching. Despite birth control, Toni found herself pregnant at the age of 25 so she sought an abortion. She is quoted as saying, “I didn’t like having a termination, but it would have been immoral to give birth to a child that I felt strongly would only be a burden to the world.” What? It’s immoral to give birth to a child, but not immoral to kill that child? Finally at the age of 27 Toni found a doctor to perform the sterilization surgery on her. She met and married a man named Ed who shared her views on the environment. They lead a very nice lifestyle which they both attribute to not having children. They are both vegetarians and since they are childless, they can jet off to take nice vacations without increasing their carbon footprints. I guess in their way of thinking, it must all even out somehow. Toni and Ed are just an example of the so-called “forward thinkers” in the ways of protecting the planet. My personal opinion is that global warming is a hoax and man can never destroy this planet. Only God will destroy our earth at the end of the age. But, many people worship upon the altar of planet protection and environmentalism. God does indeed call each of us to be good stewards of all the gifts He has given us, including the earth upon which we live. But, do any of us think that God would expect an unborn child to be killed or for a couple to remain childless in a misguided attempt to save the planet? Certainly not! Over and over in scripture God expresses his love for all peoples, even the unborn. Scripture teaches us that children are a blessing from the Lord. Marriage and the procreation of children from that union are pleasing to God. Children are no more of threat to our environment than global warming is. We live in a fallen world full of sin and deception. We get off-track when we fail to put our trust in God. Instead we decide that we know what’s best for our own lives and those around us. But, God who loves life and wants all mankind to live with him in heaven for eternity sent his only son to die on the cross so our sins can be forgiven. Jesus died for LIFE, for us, and for the forgiveness of our sins. John 3:16. For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
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Life Lines for February 3, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
February 5 is Super Tuesday … primary election day in Illinois and many other states as well.
It cannot be stated forcefully enough that the selection of the candidate in this election comes at an extremely crucial and pivotal point in our nation’s history. We are so very close to having Roe v. Wade struck down and it all depends on who is chosen as president in November of ’08. But, to get to that point, we must first select a candidate to represent our values in the fall election. First and foremost we must acknowledge and appreciate the power of America’s voters. We must pray for guidance, know the candidate and VOTE! Learn where the candidates stand on principle … what are their core values and beliefs. What will we do as voters if we find ourselves faced with two candidates in November who both support abortion? Ask yourself “who will most likely limit the evil act of abortion” and then prayerfully make your decision. We must all realize that our one vote does make a difference. We must remain loyal to Jesus in all of our choices, and finally, help get out the vote. Keep in mind that all Americans have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. But without protecting all Americans, born and unborn, with the first right, all others are moot. All political issues have to be considered in elections. But, not all issues have equal weight in the minds of voters. The issues that directly violate the human’s most fundamental right, the right to life, are the equivalent of building your political issues on a house of sand. Abortion is a human rights issue, not an issue of choice. Vote your conscience and restore our nation to a culture of life.
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Life Lines for February 10, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
God’s Word is Life!
Christians believe that there is no greater power than the Word of God. God gave us His Word and sent His son in order that we might all have Life. Lutherans for Life has developed a new program to help all Christians win the battle for the sanctity of human life. “Renewal for Life” has already been launched in a few pilot congregations and is scheduled to be launched in all LCMS congregations no later than the fall of 2008. With “Renewal for Life” we will be called to renew our strength and be given tools in the battle against abortion and all the evils that surround the culture of death. More details of this exciting new program will be shared in the coming months. Watch for it!
"Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it." Luke 11:28
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Life Lines for February 17, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
We are now in the season of Lent and are reminded of our baptism and look forward to the promise of Easter. Baptism is the forerunner of our promised eternal life with God. Eternal means it will never end, but it also promises that we will share in quality life with God forever and ever. As we walk this Lenten journey, we should be more alert to the attacks on human life. We should reject the devil and all of his evil works and ways. Pro-abortion and the so-called right to die are two examples of Satan’s empty promises. Baptized believers in Christ should firmly reject these evil deeds and look to God to lead us to a deeper conviction in the sanctity of human life. Abortion is not a “right” but clearly a “wrong” in the eyes of God and the hearts of all believers. Pray for those who are contemplating an abortion or suffering as a result of having had an abortion. Ephesians 4:17-24. So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more. You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
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Life Lines for February 24, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Repentance is one of the themes of the Lenten season and to repent is to turn away from the path of sin. But, it is not possible to repent of a sin that we do not even acknowledge as sin. We must ask God to forgive our sins, even our hidden sins. Abortion is clearly a sin when we consider that the injustice of this act has been proclaimed as a “right” and a legitimate “choice.” Even respectable elements of society such as our own U.S. Supreme Court, many medical associations, liberal politicians and even a few Christian denominations insist on calling abortion a “right,” and find it impossible to see abortion as always “wrong.” It’s up to God’s people to educate supporters and believers of abortion to see how wrong it is to kill the unborn. Let our prayer be that the light of truth will shine and expose the evils of abortion to everyone and the killing of the innocents will halt. Isaiah 9:2. The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.
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Life Lines for March 2, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
To take a stand on an issue, especially a controversial issue, is not always a pleasant experience. To stand up for the rights of unborn children often brings about unwarranted criticism and ridicule, even from our friends and fellow worshipers. Those who believe that assisted suicide and abortion are terribly wrong often sin with thoughts that we feel that our friends and fellow worshipers should be helping in the fight for a culture of life, not hindering the efforts we are making by remaining silent. In our nation today, abortion, assisted suicide and euthanasia are threats to human dignity by directly attacking life itself, the fundamental right that all humans should enjoy. A culture of life begins with the protection of the innocent from direct attack and extends to defending that life whenever it is threatened. The direct and intentional killing of human life from the moment of conception to natural death is always wrong and must always be opposed. If you believe this to be true, join Illinois Valley Lutherans for Life on Tuesday, March 4 at 7 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Chapin. The program for the evening will be revealing details on the new “Renewal for Life” program through national Lutherans for Life. Everyone is invited to hear about this exciting new way to battle abortion. Don’t just sit back and let others fight the battle for life for you. Psalm 1:1-2. Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.
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Life Lines for March 9, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Her name is Haleigh Poutre and she is from Boston, MA. Haleigh represents a case of barely escaping being another victim of euthanasia. Haleigh had apparently been abused for years by both her mother and step-father and by the time Haleigh was 14 years old, the MA Dept. of Social Services took custody of her after she had once again been hurt by child abuse. While in the care of DSS, Haleigh fell into a deep coma and doctors had declared that Haleigh was “brain dead.” DSS asked the state Supreme Court for permission to take her life. But, thanks be to God, Haleigh started responding, talking and interacting with people before DSS completed its mission of death. She responded in spite of the position of DSS that Haleigh had “the least amount of brain function that a person can have and still be considered alive.” State officials also stated that a brain injury and stroke left “the child with no hope of any meaningful recovery.” Well, it seems that God had other plans for Haleigh. Clearly Haleigh’s case is another where a life and death decision was based solely on the “quality of life.” Dr. Wesley Smith stated, “Accepting the ‘quality of life ethic’, which is promoted so heavily among bioethicists, led to the Department of Social Services and the Supreme Court of Massachusetts to approve taking the young girl’s food and water away.” No thanks to the experts, Haleigh is now in rehab and talking. Cases like this happen every day in our nation … few make the news. Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked (Psalm 82:3-4).
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Life Lines for March 16, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Today we celebrate Palm Sunday. Jesus made his triumphant journey to Jerusalem, knowing full well what the week would bring and how it would end. (Matthew 16:21. From that time on, Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.) He knew he would go to Jerusalem to be crucified, and yet he still went. Why? For Life! (John 5:24. I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.) This is the Word of God. This is the Word of Life. There is no excuse for abortion … none. It is a sin for everyone involved in the process. But, thanks be to God that forgiveness is a blessing from God. In this Lenten season of repentance, we can see our sins for what they are, going against the Word of God. But, repentance leads us from death into Life. Let us pray that the Word of Life will touch the hearts of our nations leaders and end abortion and euthanasia in our country.
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Life Lines for March 23, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Have you ever stared in awe at the beauty of the Grand Canyon or the majesty of Mt. McKinley? Have you ever wondered at the puzzle behind the great Pyramids? I’m sure we have all been impressed by the sheer beauty of so many places in our world. But how many of us have thought about the human body and what a marvelous, intricate creation it is? David knew as we read in Psalm 139: 13-14. For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Our bodies are made up of millions of cells, all working together in one unit. God arranged the cells in our body, each and every one, just as He wanted them to be. There are many cells, but one body. God has also arranged the cells in unborn children, from the very moment of conception, just as He did for His own son, Jesus. Medical technology has allowed us to witness the wonders of a child’s development through sonograms. To anyone who has seen a sonogram of an unborn child, there is no doubt that they are looking at a human baby. But, with abortion, (“choice”), "death with dignity," and doctor-assisted suicide, the current social acceptance of these practices exposes our culture's confusion about what it means to be human. Society has assumed the practice of deciding the value of a human life. Elimination of a life unworthy is brought about by means such as abortion and euthanasia. God’s power has been set aside by man’s decision to assume he knows what is best. But, Isaiah 55:8 tells us, My thoughts are not your thoughts, and my ways are not your ways. God is the giver of life and He values each and every life as His own precious child. In fact, He values our lives more than that of His own son who He sent to die in our place for all of our sins. Romans 8:32. He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will He not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Now, here’s the rest of the story. After the physical and verbal abuse heaped upon Jesus resulted in His death, He rose again in victory over death. He had paid the price for our salvation. But, it doesn’t stop there. Jesus also told us in Matthew 28:19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. All nations include all humans. Pray for an end to the culture of death that has taken over our nation. Use the gifts God has given you to press forward in educating the citizens of our nation in the evils of abortion and euthanasia. Thanks be to God for the progress we are making, but the battle is far from over.
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Life Lines for March 30, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
A new documentary titled “Demographic Winter” focusing on the under-population crisis around the world has been recently released. European nations have witnessed births at below replacement rates, and abortion is the sole reason that the population of Russia has been decimated. Nations such as Japan have been unable to support their aging population. This documentary highlights the catastrophic consequences of rapidly falling birthrates. The Heritage Foundation states that “worldwide, birthrates have declined by 50% in the past half-century and there are 59 nations, with 44% of the world’s population, with below replacement birthrates.” It is estimated that by the year 2030, the birthrate in Europe is expected to have a shortfall of 20 million workers. In Russia, where abortion has been used as a means of birth control for decades, that nation is expected to lose one-third of its current population by 2050. "The ongoing global decline in human birthrates is the single most powerful force affecting the fate of nations and the future of society in the 21st century," says demographer Philip Longman in the film. The U.S. is not immune from the same problem. 50 million babies have been killed in the womb since 1973. Those are humans who would have been active in our workforce, paying taxes, purchasing goods, and caring for the elderly citizens. Sacrificing the unborn in the name of “choice” is a blight on the entire world and the act of abortion is against the very Word of God. Genesis 9:1. Then God blessed Noah and his sons, saying to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth.”
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Life Lines for April 6, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Planned Parenthood, the nation’s largest provider of abortions, has reported over $1 BILLION dollars in income for the annual report covering 2006-2007. Planned Parenthood also spews forth propaganda stating the advances their organization has made in health care services and sex education. But the truth is, Planned Parenthood is performing more abortions than ever! This organization targets our black community for abortions. This organization is lax in reporting sexual crimes against children. This organization received over $336 MILLION dollars from our government through taxes paid by hardworking, many pro-life Americans. If you are outraged by the taxpayer funded killing of babies in the womb, do something about it. Pray for the pro-life groups who work tirelessly to bring about and end to this senseless killing. Help to support these pro-life groups with your gifts of time, talent and money. Help put an end to the killing of America’s unborn. Proverbs 4:25-27. Let your eyes look straight ahead and your sight be focused in front of you. Carefully walk a straight path, and all your ways will be secure. Do not lean to the right or to the left. Walk away from evil.
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Life Lines for April 13, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Mark your calendars for a very important date coming up soon! Saturday, May 17 is the annual WALK FOR LIFE fundraiser for our local Pregnancy Resource Center. The Walk will be held at Jacksonville’s Community Park with registration beginning at 9 a.m. This is an extremely important year for the Walk for Life and the need for funding is critical. Because of the scheduled demolition of the current building housing the Pregnancy Resource Center, a new location is essential for their continuing ministry. They may have to re-locate as soon as July, but absolutely no later than November of this year. This ministry has been a part of the Jacksonville community for over 20 years now, helping women and children in need. Please consider participating in this year’s Walk for Life through your prayers, pledges and participation. For more information, call the PRC at 217-245-9340 or email us. Philippians 4: 18a-20. Your gifts are a soothing aroma, a sacrifice that God accepts and with which he is pleased. My God will richly fill your every need in a glorious way through Christ Jesus. Glory belongs to our God and Father forever! Amen.
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Life Lines for April 20, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Tuesday, May 6, 7 p.m. at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. Illinois Valley Lutherans for Life will have a special guest speaker. Carl Schroeder, an attorney from northern Illinois will speak on end of life issues, advanced directives including medical power of attorney and living wills. It is so important that we be educated and armed with all of the facts so we can act on our end of life wishes without the fear of government or medical facility interference. Plan now to attend this meeting as it is appropriate for all age groups.
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Life Lines for April 27, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
By now we have all heard about the famous statement made by Democratic presidential nominee, Barack Obama concerning his daughters and the possibility of making a mistake and getting pregnant at a young age. When he first uttered the statement, he referenced the age 16 and how he wouldn’t want them punished with a baby or an STD, so he would support them having an abortion. (Killing his grandchild by the way). When questioned later about that statement, he lowered the age to 12 or 13, I guess to make it more rational but I’m still pondering that change in his statement. I find it disturbing that he would use his daughters as the example in his scenario, and then to use the words “punished with a baby” even more disturbing. He would rather they abort his grandchild than deal with the consequences of their actions. I wonder if he stopped to think that since they are residents of Illinois, they could abort his grandchild without his knowledge because he voted AGAINST the parental notification law for minors while serving as senator in the state of Illinois. (The parental notification law was passed in 1995, but because of rules negotiations, it is still not enforceable, which is just another disturbing fact about abortion laws in Illinois). I have these words for Barack Obama. Proverbs 14:12 “There is a way that seems right to a person, but eventually it ends in death.” For those who are facing an unwanted or unplanned pregnancy I share these words. Romans 8:28. “We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, those whom he has called according to his plan.”
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Life Lines for May 4, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Her name was Dorothy Dixon and she died on January 31, 2008 in Alton, IL. Few will remember Ms. Dixon in the years to come. She didn’t write a best selling novel, nor win a political office. She wasn’t a famous actress, nor was she a scientist. She was just an ordinary person, pregnant, and trying her best to keep a roof over her head and that of her 1 year old son. What is newsworthy about this woman’s life was actually her death. She was a prisoner in her own home, locked up most of the time in a dark, cold basement with little to eat and no clothing to keep her warm. Her tormentors were led by a 35 year old woman and five accomplices ranging in age from 43 to 12. Ms. Dixon’s monthly income was pocketed by the six tormentors, giving little of it to Ms. Dixon. Instead, the six tormentors used Ms. Dixon for target practice with a BB gun which led to over 30 BB’s being lodged in her body upon her death. Her pitiful pregnant body was beaten, tortured, forced to run naked inside the house, scalded with hot liquids and starved. After reading this story I asked myself how God could allow this to happen? I searched His Word and found that evil entered that house in the form of six people who went about the work of Satan. They had free will and chose to perform heinous acts upon another human who they saw as having an unworthy life. Sin is the choice of man, not God. I feel compassion for all of the suffering that this woman endured prior to her death, and the death of her unborn child. I pray God took her home to be with him and put an end to her suffering. But we must also look to the tormentors in this case. I felt disgust when I read the news story about Ms. Dixon’s torturous death and I wanted the tormentors to pay. Genesis 9:6. "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in the image of God has God made man. But, I also feel that we must pray for the souls of these lost people that they not only pay for their sins, but that they come to faith in Jesus. John 3:16. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. The sad story of Ms. Dixon’s death is only one example of what happens hundreds of times per day in our nation. Why? Because too many have chosen to view life, especially human life, as being unworthy and dispensable.
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Life Lines for May 11, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Today is the day we set aside to honor our mothers who gave us life, loved and nurtured us and made many personal sacrifices for us. God looks upon motherhood in a distinct and special way, unlike the worldly view that modern feminism has wrought. God created woman to be merciful by nature as He made man to be a protector by nature. In Isaiah 66:13 we read “As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you.” Also, 1 Thessalonians 2:7 tells us “We were gentle when we were with you, like a mother taking care of her children.” The Bible also gives many references to the way God is involved with women and their pregnancies. Genesis 21:1-2 “The Lord came to help Sarah and did for her what He had promised. So she became pregnant.” Genesis 30:17 says “God answered Leah’s prayer. She became pregnant…” Based on just these few verses, we know that God wants a culture of Life because of the very nature He placed in woman to bear and nurture life and in man to be the protector of life. Intentionally aborting a child is an unnatural act against the very essence of being a woman and the way God created the first woman, Eve. John 1:1-4 tells us “He (Christ) was in the beginning with God. Everything was made by Him. In Him was Life and the Life was the light of mankind. ALL things were made by God, including the tiny human in the womb. Martin Luther left no doubt about how he viewed the sin of abortion. “There should be no trifling with those who are pregnant, but they should be objects of constant care. Those who have no regard for pregnant women and do not spare the tender fruits are murderers.” Thank your mother today for giving you the gift of life.
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Life Lines for May 18, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
For those involved in the pro-life campaign, positive results seem to be just beyond our grasp. But, in reality, we are making significant strides in educating our society about the evils of abortion and the killing of the elderly and/or disabled. The United Methodist Church at a recent gathering of the United Methodist General Conference adopted several petitions recognizing the sanctity of human life. The delegates voted to encourage the assistance of crisis pregnancy centers and to also support adult notification and consent when a minor seeks an abortion. These are baby steps, but baby steps in the right direction. We all need to pray for these positive steps in our journey to defend and protect the ‘least of these,’ the unborn child. God’s Word calls each of us to uphold the right to life. Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked (Psalm 82:3-4).
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Life Lines for May 25, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
The dark history of the shameful movement underpinning the biggest human atrocities of the 20th century was powerfully outlined by Ben Stein in his important documentary which is a must-see for anyone serious about science, about faith, and about freedom.
Stein followed the scientific community’s lockstep loyalty to Darwinism backwards in time, and ended up at the Nazi gas chambers, which first killed disabled people. They were just practicing Darwinism, by speeding up the process of natural selection, formerly called survival of the fittest, by eliminating “useless eaters”. Society bought into this toxic mentality because it came from doctors and scientists.
He followed their trail to Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger, who was a dedicated eugenicist, working overtime to rid the world of people that she deemed as unworthy of life. While she was ostensibly offering women choice, secretly she was seeking to rid American society of the ‘unfit’ (as she saw them), thus we got more Darwinism in action. We are still in the midst of the nightmare of Sanger’s legacy; 50 million Americans have died of abortion, surpassing the darkest dreams of Hitler and Stalin together. My hat is off to Mr. Stein for bringing the dark side of evolution and Darwinism onto the big screen for the world to see. Ephesians 5:8-11. “you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”
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Life Lines for June 1, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Popular culture is blindly embracing science and ignoring legitimate moral concerns. Human dignity is steadily being eroded in the pursuit of the "advancement of science" and the quest for "cures." Increasingly, we are losing our common understanding of what it means to be a human being, and the idea that human beings are something "special" is rapidly becoming an antiquated notion. Science is unquestionably a worthwhile pursuit, but many have come to view science as an end unto itself. The unbridled pursuit of science and technology is glorified, and any who suggest constraining science within limits of morality or propriety are condemned. Raising the simple question of whether something should be done is considered taboo. Radical science advocates are only interested in whether something can be done. Central to the "science without limits" view is the notion that man is merely an animal, the product of random chance. God is removed from the creation equation and the notion of moral truth is abandoned. Notions of right and wrong are relegated to the spheres of theology and philosophy and do not constrain the consciences or actions of radical scientists. This notion is evident in the movie “Expelled” which I highly recommend that everyone view. Ben Stein has done an outstanding job at exposing those in the field of science who have a god of the theory of evolution. These evolutionists have invaded our educational institutions and are spreading their anti-Christ propaganda at an alarming pace, knocking off all who get in their way. Christians need to recognize such evil and speak out against it. 1 Peter 3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.
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Life Lines for June 8, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
Her name is Kristi Burton and at the age of 13 she began her crusade for the pro-life movement in her own high school, speaking out on pro-life issues.
Now at the young age of 20, she is already making her mark in the pro-life camp nationally. Burton’s belief is that personhood lies at the very core of life issues. She has asked, ”If unborn children aren’t humans, what are they?” She began her work by speaking with a friend who was an attorney. She was counseled that what was needed was a constitutional definition that laid down a principal of law, that an unborn child is a human being, with all the rights our society grants a human being. Burton stated, “No one should be able to kill someone just because they feel like it … we wouldn’t allow that with anyone but the unborn.” And that’s how it all started. Gov. Mike Huckabee supported Burton’s amendment and launched attention to it nationally, helping to get the message out. The Personhood Initiative has caught fire and turned into a movement. It was reported that the members of Colorado for Equal Rights have more than the required 76,000 signatures needed to get the personhood proposal on this November’s ballot. Burton stated that “This amendment will establish a cornerstone for protecting human life in our society … and we all know this is the right thing to do. We are giving Colorado voters an opportunity to vote their conscience and protect the most innocent and helpless ones among us.” But, they will be facing an uphill battle as the pro-death supporters are lining up to stop this amendment in its tracks. Let us pray for a positive outcome on the side of protecting the unborn and the work of Ms. Burton. Psalm 145: 17-20. The LORD is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his work The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them. The LORD preserveth all them that love him: but all the wicked will he destroy.
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Life Lines for June 15, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
The longing for community and family is strongly present in each of us. We want to connect, to belong, to know where were came from. So where does pregnancy resulting from sperm donation fit into this premise? The United Kingdom is considering a new law which will strip away the legal need for a father. Birth certificates will simply reflect Parent A and Parent B. (Well, this makes it much more appealing to single women and/or a lesbian couple now doesn’t it?) But doesn’t it also send a clear message to society that fathers are not important? And what is the far reaching effect going to be on the children? I tend to think that these children are going to need help to manage their way through periods of confusion and even despair as they attempt to gain their own sense of identity and belonging. Dr. Robert Nachtigall, a San Francisco fertility doctor was quoted as saying, “Let’s fact it; donor gametes is an experiment … This is a huge social experiment mediated by technology. Who knows how it’s going to turn out?” These are not words of promise or comfort coming from someone prominent in the field of sperm donors. This is also contrary to God’s plan for mankind. God intended that pregnancy occur within the bond of marriage between a man and a woman -- who are married to each other. God commissioned the human race in Genesis by the proclamation that Adam and Eve were to multiply and replenish the earth. Furthermore, according to the Bible, pregnancy is to occur between the man and a woman who are married to each other. Sexual relations outside of the marriage relationship, is defined rape, adultery, or fornication. God condemns these as being morally wrong and thereby sinful. Therefore, the very act of becoming pregnant by sperm donor is not in accord with the will of God. Furthermore, children from such an act will more than likely feel a loss of identity or of belonging, fueling emotional problems. God made it clear that a father and a mother were to raise children and the Christian father is really the instrument in God's hand in this matter of fatherhood. Thank God for the gift of our fathers, and honor them on this special day.
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Life Lines for June 22, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
All true Christians would agree that life is the most precious gift that human beings have been given. Just the chance to be alive on this earth and play a part in the grand scheme of God's eternal plan is a privilege indeed. The Bible clearly teaches that all life is of infinite value, regardless of its duration or quality, because all human beings are made in the image of God. Yet, despite this, there are times when life becomes so difficult or unbearable that people have tried to deal with these problems without God's guidance and leading. Seeing a loved one suffer, where a doctor has pronounced there is no hope for them to live, is one of those issues. Karen Weber, a Florida woman who suffered a stroke in December presently has a feeding tube. And just like Teri Schaivo, Karen’s husband wants to have the feeding tube removed because he claims she is in a persistent vegetative state and will not recover. Karen’s family however is fighting to save Karen’s life and says she is alert and responsive. Like Teri Schaivo, Karen is unable to communicate her own medical treatment wishes and has not advance medical directive to instruct family and doctors. Both sides are battling in court and a judge has issued an injunction prohibiting the removal of the woman’s feeding tube while a committee decides her competency. Please pray for Karen that she does not suffer the same painful death experienced by Teri Schaivo and so many others in our country. Deuteronomy 30:19-20. This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
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Life Lines for June 29, 2008
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
A very common medical practice of withdrawing food and water from patients who are deemed terminal or in the so-called vegetative state happens daily in this country. Many doctors describe this method of dying as a gentle, painless process claiming it doesn’t involve any pain. But, according to Dr. David Stevens, death by dehydration is a cruel, inhumane, and agonizing death. Dr. Stevens claims that most so-called experts have never witnessed someone die under such circumstances. But, Dr. Stevens who worked in Africa for 13 years has witnessed hundreds of cases of death in children and adults from dehydration due to gastroenteritis. Here is his account of death by dehydration. First comes extreme thirst, dry mouth and thick saliva. The patient becomes dizzy, faint and unable to stand or sit; develops severe cramping in the arms and legs as sodium and potassium concentrations in the body go up and fluids go down. Patient can not produce tears, develops severe abdominal cramps, nausea and dry-heaving as the stomach and intestines dry out. Skin and lips are cracking and tongue is swollen as the skin loses elasticity, thins and wrinkles. The hands and feet become cold as the remaining fluids in the circulatory system are shunted to the vital organs in an attempt to stay alive. The patient develops severe headaches and the brain starts to shrink from lack of fluids. If the patient is lucky, they may lapse into a coma at this point, but often times they will develop seizures before the coma overtakes their body. The blood pressure drops to a nearly undetectable level and the heart stops pumping. This process is slow, taking many days before death occurs. This is how Teri Schiavo was killed and how people are killed every day in our nation. But an 11 year old girl named Haleigh Poutre managed to escape this torturous form of death. Haleigh was admitted to a hospital in MA in Sept. 2005 because she had been viciously abused. The state eventually took custody of Haleigh and doctors indicated that she would not recover. Officials asked the MA State Supreme Court for permission to remove food and water and end her life. However, Haleigh fooled everyone and started a strong recovery. She used simple words and hand gestures to try and indicate what had happened to her to bring about such an injury. Most of us have never heard Haleigh’s story because it certainly wasn’t highlighted in the media … and won’t be. Otherwise, some might be made to admit that a wrong conclusion was reached in the case of Teri Schaivo and many more like her. Haleigh is now in rehab and awaiting the trial of her stepfather, Jason D. Strickland, who assaulted Haleigh and pushed her down a flight of stairs which resulted in her current medical condition. The lesson to be learned here is to not blindly accept what medical professionals suggest as the answer to a patients medical problem. They are human and capable of making mistakes too. No thanks to the state of MA, Haleigh lives, is in rehab and making progress. Everyone should have an advance medical directive regarding their own wishes on medical care. Matthew 25: 34-40, "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.' "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
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