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Life Lines for January 18, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Today, Life Sunday, there is an ad in the Jacksonville Journal-Courier listing area Christians who boldly admit they are opposed to the killing of babies in the womb.

We recognize Life Sunday, but not in the sense of a celebration. Instead, we remember with a heavy heart the 50 MILLION babies who have been slaughtered while in the womb since January 22, 1973 when Roe V. Wade became the law of the land.

Many folks will travel to Washington DC this week. Some of those attending will witness the inauguration on January 20 of Barack Obama, the most liberal, pro-abortion president to ever serve our nation. Others will travel to witness to and protest against the slaughter of the unborn on January 22 in the annual Walk for Life. January 22, 2009 will mark 36 years of killing nearly 50 MILLION babies in the womb. My husband and I plan to be among those protesting the slaughter of the unborn in Washington DC this year. We will join an expected record number of folks this year including our own director of National Lutherans for Life, Dr. Jim Lamb and president of the LCMS, Gerald B. Kieschnick.

But, you don’t have to travel to Washington DC to show your support for LIFE. Next Sunday, January 25 at 2 p.m. a Life Rally will be held at the state capitol building in Springfield, IL in the rotunda. Speakers for this year will be Daniel and Angela Michael of Small Victories, a sidewalk-counseling ministry. The Michaels are present outside the baby-killing center in Granite City, IL each day the clinic is open, doing their best to witness to mothers who are going in for an abortion. I encourage everyone who has a heart for the unborn to attend this rally. It will take very little time to attend and hearing the truth will last a lifetime. How can anyone who knows the truth that abortion is the killing of a human life sit by silently?

Proverbs 21:13. If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.

Life Lines for January 25, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

This past week Barack Obama was sworn in as our nation’s 44th president. Much ado has been made about this man since he first came on the national scene at the Democratic National Convention in 2004. He is hailed as a man of hope, change and even the dubbed Messiah. I will concede that he is certainly a man determined to change things, but I fear that the changes are not going to be God-pleasing. If President Obama has his way, he will sign the Freedom of Choice Act into law.

The promoters of the FOCA sometimes claim that its purpose is to "codify Roe v. Wade," the 1973 Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion on demand. But the key binding provisions of the bill would go further than Roe, invalidating all of the major types of pro-life laws that have been upheld by the Supreme Court in the decades since Roe. The heart of the bill is a ban that would nullify all of the major types of pro-life laws that the Supreme Court has said are permissible under Roe v. Wade, including the ban on partial-birth abortions and bans on government funding of abortion. "The bill flatly invalidates any "statute, ordinance, regulation, administrative order, decision, policy, practice, or other action" of any federal, state, or local government or governmental official (or any person acting under government authority) that would "deny or interfere with a woman's right to choose" abortion, or that would "discriminate against the exercise of the right . . . in the regulation or provision of benefits, facilities, services, or information."

This no-restriction policy would establish, in Senator Boxer's words, "the absolute right to choose" prior to fetal "viability." "The no-restriction policy would also apply after "viability" to any abortion sought on grounds of "health."

Among the types of laws that the FOCA would invalidate are:

-- The Hyde Amendment, which prohibits most federal funding of abortion, and the laws of many states that restrict state funding of abortion.

-- Laws in effect in some jurisdictions that bar abortions in government-operated hospitals.

-- Laws requiring parental notification or consent, or judicial authorization, before an abortion can be performed on a minor daughter.

-- Laws requiring that girls and women seeking abortion receive certain information on matters such as fetal development and alternatives to abortion, and then wait a specified period before the abortion is actually performed, usually 24 or 48 hours.

-- "Conscience" laws, allowing doctors, nurses, or other state-licensed professionals, and hospitals or other health-care providers, to decline to provide or pay for abortions.

Pastor Bahr will make a presentation on FOCA at the meeting of Illinois Lutherans for Life on Tuesday, January 27, 7 p.m. at Christ Lutheran, Winchester. Everyone is invited to join the meeting and learn more about this DANGEROUS legislation.

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.

Life Lines for February 1, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

What an awesome experience my husband and I shared on Thursday, January 22, 2009 when we attended the annual Walk for Life on the national mall in Washington, DC. Our day started with church services at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Alexandria, VA. Rev. Gerald Kieschnick, president, LCMS delivered the sermon that morning during an uplifting service for Life. We then enjoyed a wonderful brunch before setting off for the subway station and the national mall.

It seemed that God smiled on us that day with sunshine and temps in the mid to upper 40’s. When we exited the subway at the Smithsonian stop and entered the national mall area at 12 Noon, it was already throbbing with lots of excitement. Rev. Kieschnick delivered the opening prayer and was followed by many pro-life leaders and legislators with their own message of Life. One message in particular caught my attention as Rep. Mike Pence, Republican from Indiana, delivered it. (My maiden name is Pence and although I don’t know for sure, I like to think we’re related somehow!) Here is a quote from Rep. Pence. “Yesterday, with more than 60 cosponsors, I re-introduced the ‘Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act,’ a bill that would deny any federal funding to Planned Parenthood of America," Pence concluded. "On this dark anniversary, let us rededicate ourselves to protecting the unborn and to protecting taxpayers on matters of conscience.”

At first I was thrilled when I heard these words, but then I wondered, how far will this get? Not very far I fear because liberal leftists who are only too happy to bend to the will of pro-death President Obama control both houses of Congress. The other legislators who spoke had similar messages of what they wanted to do, but I fear the same results with any pro-life bill … death!

During the campaign Obama made many statements about how he wanted to reduce the number of abortions. But, have his actions supported such statements? I don’t think so. The day after the Walk for Life Obama signed an executive order reinstating funding for overseas abortions. This action will only increase, not decrease, the number of abortions. Further proof of how funding abortions abroad is confirmed by the reaction of Cecile Richards, director of Planned Parenthood, who was absolutely “giddy” with excitement when Obama signed the executive order.

His choices for cabinet and staff which includes Rahm Emanuel, Tom Daschle, Dawn Johnsen, Ellen Moran, and Hiliary Clinton just to name a few, are ALL 100% pro-death for the unborn. These appointments are not indicative of someone who wants to REDUCE the number of abortions. When I read the text of Obama’s inaugural address, two different paragraphs leapt out at me. Here is the first paragraph.

“We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.” These are hollow words to me because in Obama’s world, the unborn don’t matter and aren’t given the chance to pursue their full measure of happiness. Death is his answer for these babies.

Here is the second paragraph from the text of Obama’s speech.

“We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.” My response to this statement of hypocrisy is simple. “We have God on our side and you cannot outlast those who believe in the sanctity of human life and WE WILL DEFEAT YOU!”

The Bible has this to say. 1 John 1:6. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.

Life Lines for February 22, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Are you pro-life? Do you think the killing of babies in the womb is wrong? Why not take action against the senseless killing?

Here’s a simple strategy that has the potential to make a HUGE difference. The “red envelope campaign” began with a man whose regular, daily habit had been to seek God's guidance for each day. On the morning of January 23, he saw a vision of loads of red envelopes arriving at the White House with a message to President Obama to support life, not abortion. He sent an email to friends about it, and from there it has grown to reach tens of thousands, if not more.

Here’s how you can become involved and make a difference. Buy a red envelope or use one from a Valentine's card or another greeting card, or buy an envelope from an office supply store. Include your name and return address on the front. On the back of the envelope write the following message:

"Dear President Obama:

This envelope represents one child who died in abortion. It is empty because that life was not allowed to offer anything to the world. Responsibility begins with conception."

Address it to:

President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, D.C. 20500

Invite your friends to do the same and let’s send a clear message to President Obama, the most liberal, pro-death president to ever serve our nation, that hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens DO NOT want abortion to continue in this country.

Titus 1:15-16. “To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. In fact, both their minds and consciences are corrupted. They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good.”

The news that Mike was responding was surprising because doctors has said Connolly had brain damage from his heart stopping and would never recover from the coma. Now he is making steady progress and the same physicians say he will make a full recovery.

Connolly's heart stopped beating for 35 minutes and doctors speculate his brain went without oxygen for at least 10 minutes -- making his recovery even more spectacular. Connolly himself is joking with his medical staff now about what happened to him, but said he still feels the pain of the CPR.

Truly, God has plans for Haleigh and Mike and wouldn’t allow their lives to be cut short. Each life is precious to God, from the unborn to the elderly. God has appointed a certain time for each of us to die (Job 7:1, "Is there not an appointed time to man upon earth?..." ; Psalms 31:15, "My times are in thy hand...")

He has a plan for each life, and shortening that plan interrupts what he wants to accomplish in that person.

The Office of Management and Budget announced on February 27, 2009 that it was reviewing a proposal to lift the controversial "conscience" regulation, the first step toward reversing the policy. Once the OMB has reviewed the proposal it will be published in Federal Register for a 30-day public comment period.

After the 30-day comment period, the regulation could be lifted entirely or it could be modified to make the protections more specific, the official said.

The new rule empowers the federal government to cut off federal funding for any state or local government, hospital, health plan, clinic or other entity that does not accommodate doctors, nurses, pharmacists or other employees who refuse to participate in care they find objectionable. The Bush administration adopted the rule at the urging of conservative groups, abortion opponents and others in order to safeguard workers from being fired, disciplined or penalized in other ways.

Women's health advocates, family planning proponents, abortion rights activists and others condemned the Bush ruling, saying it would create a major obstacle to providing many health services, including family planning, infertility treatment and end-of-life care, as well as possibly a wide range of scientific research. (In other words, under the Bush ruling, health care providers were not FORCED to perform abortions or dispense abortion pills).

The move marks the latest challenge to the Obama administration's attempt to find more of middle ground on issues related to abortion. President Obama has said repeatedly he hopes those on both sides of the issue can work to reduce the number of abortions by preventing unwanted pregnancies and by offering support to women who do get pregnant and want to continue their pregnancies.

Yes, Obama claims he wants to reduce the number of abortions performed, while at the same time, he lifted restrictions on federal funding for international family planning groups that promote abortion. The next closely watched decision will be whether Obama lifts federal restrictions on federal funding for human embryonic stem cell research.

Government has a rightful authority from God that we must submit to, unless the government orders us to do something that is in opposition to God's law. Acts 4:19-20. But Peter and John replied, "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard."

Life Lines for March 15, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Are you one of the 69 million Americans who voted for “change” on November 4, 2008? If so, are you realizing the full impact of the “change” that Obama wants to bring about in our country? It is clear to me that the Obama administration is setting out to “change” the very soul of America by waging war on our freedom, our democracy, our healthcare system, and our very lives.

Obama is sending over ONE BILLION DOLLARS of American taxpayer funds to promote the killing of the unborn internationally. And let us not forget the legislation that is every abortion lovers dream … the Freedom of Choice Act. Every pro-life protection that so many have fought for over the past 36 years would be wiped out with the flourish of Obama’s pen. And, FOCA would apply to all 50 states in America with very little, if any, chance of reversing that decision.

Yes, if you cast your vote for “change” on November 4, 2008, you cast your vote against our democracy, our freedom, against protecting the unborn and elderly and for the move to socialize our healthcare system. Won’t you join in with the 60 million Americans who did not cast their vote for Obama and help us fight to save our country and the principles on which it was founded … life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness before it’s too late to turn the tide?

Contact your legislators and demand they vote NO ON FOCA!

Partial birth abortion and fetal homicide are just two of the reasons to act now to stop FOCA. Senator Dick Durbin 202-224-2152 and Rep. Aaron Schock 202-225-6201.

Deuteronomy 30:19. This day I call heaven and 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.

Life Lines for March 22, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Definition of a human embryo: A fertilized egg that has begun cell division. The term, embryo, is used to describe the early stages of fetal growth, from conception to the eighth week of pregnancy. Pretty clear to me what an embryo is … how about you?

But, even though former President Bill Clinton gave direct authority to fund human embryo research in 1993, a CNN interview from March 12, 2009, reveals he may be confused about what a human embryonic stem cell is.

In an interview with Dr. Sanjay Gupta, chief medical correspondent for CNN, Clinton said Americans should support President Obama's decision to lift federal funding limits on the research if the embryos cannot "be fertilized and become little babies."

Gupta asked Clinton, “Is this going to be the abortion of the next generation? Or are people going to come around?"

Clinton told Gupta, "If it's obvious that we're not taking embryos that can – that under any conceivable scenario would be used for a process that would allow them to be fertilized and become little babies, and I think if it's obvious that we're not talking about some science fiction cloning of human beings, then I think the American people will support this."

When Gupta asked Clinton if he had any reservations about the research, the former president called the choice to use "unfertilized embryos" a "pro-life decision.

I think the American people believe it's a pro-life decision to use an embryo that's frozen that's never going to be fertilized for embryonic stem cell research. …"

Clinton said scientists must be careful to use only embryos that "have been placed beyond the pale of being fertilized before their use."

During the interview, Gupta, a neurosurgeon and Obama's former pick for surgeon general, failed to clarify that a human embryo is by definition an egg that has been fertilized for several days and that creation of stem cell lines requires its destruction.

In this week's CNN interview, Clinton suggested he would oppose stem cell experimentation if there were any chance that an embryo – a fertilized egg with DNA of two parents – could become a human being.

"But there are values involved that we all ought to feel free to discuss in all scientific research," Clinton told Gupta. "And that is the one thing that I think these committees need to make it clear that they're not going to fool with any embryos where there's any possibility, even if it's somewhat remote, that they could be fertilized and become human beings."

Huh?

Anyone want to try and make sense of Clinton’s statements for me?

Proverbs 15:2. The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.

Life Lines for March 29, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

We are presently living in a nation where the political environment does not hold life … all life, as sacred. The majority party in power right now seems more focused on how they can increase the number of abortions, not only in our nation, but also abroad. Their very actions demonstrate this statement as true and beyond argument. The funding of abortions internationally, embryonic stem cell research and the upcoming battle on the Freedom of Choice Act are just a few examples of the Obama administration’s attack on life. Thomas Jefferson once stated, “The care of human life and happiness and not their destruction is the first and only legitimate object of good government.”

Anyone who has so little respect for human life must also have little respect for Christianity and the Word of God. Since our government appears to be failing in its duty to protect all human life, the church MUST ascend above the rhetoric and witness to the truth for the will of God concerning His most precious creation, human life. The church must respond with sound biblical truth and call for workers to stand up for the most vulnerable among us … the unborn, the elderly and the disabled. Christians have a responsibility and an obligation to speak up and set the record straight when the secular among us disregard the value of each human life.

By remaining silent on life issues Christians lose the moral high ground to complain about the society in which they live. If you are currently a complacent Christian regarding abortion and euthanasia then I invite you to prayerfully consider speaking out against the culture of death that has overtaken our nation.

Ezekiel 33:4-6. “then if anyone hears the trumpet but does not take warning and the sword comes and takes his life, his blood will be on his own head. Since he heard the sound of the trumpet but did not take warning, his blood will be on his own head. If he had taken warning, he would have saved himself. But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet to warn the people and the sword comes and takes the life of one of them, that man will be taken away because of his sin, but I will hold the watchman accountable for his blood.'

Life Lines for April 5, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Holy Week begins today with the celebration of Palm Sunday. This is also a perfect time for teaching the pro-life message in the context of repentance and of the victory of life. Repentance to me brings about a change or heart and mind along with one's life, away from a sinful path and moving toward a life of holiness. But, it’s not possible to confess and repent of a sin which one does not recognize or admit is a sin. During this Holy Week I pray that we ask to be delivered from such denial of sin, and to be forgiven even our hidden sins. The application to the abortion problem is clear when we consider that the injustice of this act has been proclaimed as a "right" and a legitimate "choice."

Many folks say that they are against abortion and realize that it kills a child, but they choose to remain silent in the battle for life. Because such respectable elements of society as the Supreme Court, many medical associations, and even some Christian denominations, continue to call abortion a "right," many find it hard to recognize it as a wrong. Part of the preparation during Lent for Holy Week and Easter Sunday involves a change of heart in our own sinful lives.

In regard to the Christian denominations that hold abortion as a "right," besides contradicting the Gospel of Christ and the unbroken witness of the Christian community against abortion through the centuries, these churches render themselves particularly incapable of bringing healing and forgiveness to those who have had abortions. After all, once you have called something a "right," how credible can you make an offer of forgiveness for exercising that right?

But for Christians, Easter celebrates the victory of life over death. Christians do not come to Church on Easter simply to dress in new clothes, hunt for eggs or congratulate Jesus for rising from the dead. They come in order to touch their own victory over death. Christ died and rose again according to the will of God the Father for all people, including the unborn. Christ rose victorious over death so that all who believe will also rise to life.

The influence of the Church on the world, therefore, is the influence of a community that already participates in victory over death. That influence moves the structures and choices of society away from death and destruction, and toward the affirmation, in word and deed, of the precious gift of life. It would be a profound distortion of the meaning of Easter if we separate, in thought or deed, our faith in the Resurrection from our efforts to secure justice and respect for every life.

The victory over death was won on the cross of Christ, but has not yet fully unfolded. We therefore rejoice and struggle at the same time. We have a confidence grounded in faith that the power of life is greater than the forces of death. Yet we must not cease in our efforts to protect God's gift of life from the destructive forces all around it.

Psalm 3:4-6. To the LORD I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill. I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me. I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side.

Life Lines for April 19, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Barack Obama claims that while he supports a women’s right to choose (to kill her unborn baby) while at the same time he wants to make abortion rare, legal and safe. But what has he done to bring this about since his election? Take a look at his record so far.

Pro-Abortion Presidential Record - 2009

January 5, 2009 - Picks pro-abortion Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine as the chairman of the Democratic Party.

January 6, 2009 - Obama chooses Thomas Perrelli, the lawyer who represented Terri Schiavo’s husband Michael in his efforts to kill his disabled wife, as the third highest attorney in the Justice Department.

January 22, 2009 - Releases statement restating support for Roe v. Wade decision that allowed virtually unlimited abortions and has resulted in at least 50 million abortions since 1973.

January 23, 2009 - Forces taxpayers to fund pro-abortion groups that either promote or perform abortions in other nations. Decison to overturn Mexico City Policy sends part of $457 million to pro-abortion organizations.

January 26, 2009 - Obama nominee for Deputy Secretary of State, James B. Steinberg, tells members of the Senate that taxpayers should be forced to fund abortions. Nominee erroneously says limits on abortion funding are unconstitutional.

January 29, 2009 - President Obama nominates pro-abortion David Ogden as Deputy Attorney General.

February 12, 2009 - Obama nominates pro-abortion Elena Kagan to serve as Solicitor General.

February 27, 2009 - Starts the process of overturning pro-life conscience protections President Bush put in place to make sure medical staff and centers are not forced to do abortions.

February 28, 2009 - Barack Obama nominates pro-abortion Kathleen Sebelius to become Secretary of Health and Human Services.

March 5, 2009 - The Obama administration shut out pro-life groups from attending a White House-sponsored health care summit. Planned Parenthood, the nation's largest abortion business, made the invitation list, as did other pro-abortion groups.

March 9, 2009 - President Barack Obama signed an executive order forcing taxpayer funding of embryonic stem cell research.

March 10, 2009 - Obama announces the creation of a new foreign policy position to focus on women's issues. He names Melanne Verveer, an abortion advocate, to occupy the post. Reverses an executive order to press for more research into ways of obtaining embryonic stem cells without harming human life. The order Obama scrapped would have promoted new forms of stem cell research.

March 11, 2009 - Obama signed an executive order establishing a new agency within his administration known as the White House Council on Women and Girls. Obama's director of public liaison at the White House, Tina Tchen, an abortion advocate, became director of it.

Obama administration promotes an unlimited right to abortion at a United Nations meeting.

Obama administration officials deny negative effects of abortion at United Nation's meeting.

March 17, 2009 - President Barack Obama makes his first judicial appointment and names pro-abortion federal Judge David Hamilton to serve on the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.

March 26 - Announces $50 million for the UNFPA, the UN population agency that has been criticized for promoting abortion and working closely with Chinese population control officials who use forced abortions and involuntary sterilizations.

Politicians who support abortion use a litany of slogans to cover themselves: “personally opposed,” “safe, legal, and rare,” “woman’s right to choose,” “pro-choice,” “cannot impose my morality,” etc. None of these slogans demonstrate any logical reasoning. Are they actually committed to making abortion “safe, legal and rare”, a phrase coined by former President Clinton? Absolutely not. The slogan is just another brazen lie!

If Obama REALLY wanted to reduce the number of abortions, he would fund Pregnancy Resource Centers instead of Planned Parenthood. The moral and spiritual decline in society today is likened to the Book of Hosea. The prophet denounced ancient Israel by heaping up metaphors that sound a lot like our modern culture by calling them corrupt. He also revealed the eventual consequences of ignoring the Word of God.

Hosea 7:13. Woe to them because they have strayed from me! Destruction to them, because they have rebelled against me. I long to redeem them but they speak lies against me.

Life Lines for April 26, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Do you object to tax payer funded abortion for women who choose to kill their baby in the womb? What about funding FORCED ABORTIONS on unwilling women? Do you think you should fund abortion under those circumstances? Well, guess what? You are already funding abortions, including FORCED ABORTIONS. How?

Well, just this month our U.S. Congress slyly passed $50 MILLION in funding for UNFPA, United Nations Family Planning Fund. This bill includes the language that voids Kemp-Kasten, which for the past 23 years has stood to prevent U.S. dollars from funding coercive abortions. So, your hard earned tax money is being used to fund FORCED ABORTIONS in China.

According to the Congressional-Executive Commission on China report, which was released on Oct. 31, 2008, “Violators of the (one child) policy are routinely punished with exorbitant fines, and in some cases, subjected to forced sterilization, forced abortion, arbitrary detention, and torture.” Doesn’t sound like the Obama administration is funding much of a choice in China does it?

You and I are now footing the bill for the systematic use of FORCED ABORTION. Bet you didn’t think about that when you wrote your check out on April 15, (the day our government confiscates too much of our money) now did you?

Forced abortions, any abortion, is a crime against humanity and a sin. Why must the U.S. fund forced abortions in China with my tax dollars and your tax dollars?

Call today. Durbin 202-224-2152. Schock 202-225-6201.

Proverbs 11:3. Integrity guides decent people, but hypocrisy leads treacherous people to ruin.

Life Lines for May 10, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

When God set the world in place, when He hung the stars up in space,
when He made the land and the sea, then He made you and me.
He sat back and saw all that was good, He saw things to be as they should.
Just one more blessing He had in store; He created a mother, but whatever for?
He knew a mother would have a special place to shine His reflection on her child's face.
A mother will walk the extra mile just to see her children smile.
She'll work her fingers to the bone to make a house into a home.
A mother is there to teach and guide, a mother will stay right by your side.
She'll be there through your pain and strife, she'll stay constant in your life.
A mother will lend a helping hand until you have the strength to stand.
She'll pick you up when you are down, when you need a friend she'll stick around.
A mother is one who listens well, will keep her word; will never tell.
A mother never pokes or pries but stands quietly by your side,
giving you the strength you need, encouraging you to succeed.
A mother is one who can be strong when you need someone to lean on.
You're more than a mother to me; a reflection of Him in your face I see,
a love that knows no boundaries. I'm glad that you chose to be all this and more to me.
You share a love that knows no end,
you're more than my mother, you are my friend.

Proverbs 31: 25-29 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."

Happy Mother’s Day!

Life Lines for May 17, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Pro-life former Congressman and vice-presidential candidate Jack Kemp passed away after a short battle with cancer on May 2. Senator Arlen Specter wasted no time in making himself look like a fool (besides bolting from the Republican party) when he made the outrageous claim that ‘had it not been for the policies of the Republican Party, Jack Kemp may still be alive. The same type of false claims were made when President Reagan passed away because ‘had it not been for the Bush policies surrounding the funding of embryonic stem cell research, Reagan could have been cured of Alzheimer’s.’

This type of talk coming from one of our nation’s leaders, Senator Specter, is not only irresponsible it’s dangerous. It could give many folks suffering from incurable diseases a false sense of hope. I can certainly agree that funding for cancer research should be increased because my husband is currently battling lung cancer and I have had loved ones pass away from cancer. But, the answer does not lie in creating tiny babies (embryos) in order to kill them for research. Funding should be pouring into stem cell research that does not destroy human life and has ACTUALLY PRODUCED POSITIVE RESULTS.

Pro-life policies are not anti-science but rather based solely on the scientific fact that life begins at conception and to destroy a human embryo in the name of research is just plain wrong. Specter’s comments about Jack Kemp were a shameful example of a self-absorbed politician who is solely concerned in winning another election and not for the good of the country.

Psalms 2:10-11. Now, you kings, act wisely. Be warned, you rulers of the earth! Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling.

Life Lines for June 7, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

The "next big biomedical research debate" in Congress could be about whether to allow federal funding of research into "somatic cell nuclear transfer," also known as therapeutic cloning, to produce stem cells. President Obama's executive order easing restrictions on federal funding for embryonic stem cell research directed NIH to determine guidelines for the research. The draft guidelines issued by NIH restrict federal funding to research involving embryonic stem cell lines derived from unused embryos created for fertility treatments and willingly donated by patients who have given written consent. NIH added that embryonic stem cells derived from other sources, including cloning, will not be eligible for federal funding.

Reps. Diana DeGette (D-Colo.) and Michael Castle (R-Del.) are working on draft legislation that would codify Obama's executive order and contain language allowing NIH to pursue research on SCNT. DeGette said that her draft legislation would not require NIH to fund SCNT but that it could encourage such research. "I hope the NIH will allow SCNT to move forward with federal funding," DeGette said, adding, "But if they don't do that right now, what our bill will do is allow them to change that in the future if research shows it is a necessity and can be done ethically." (She failed to elaborate on how this could be done ethically … probably because it can’t.) DeGette also said her bill would contain language outlawing reproductive cloning, a technique that creates a genetic copy of a person.

But, according to Douglas Johnson, legislative director of National Right to Life Committee, this is deceptive talk on DeGette’s part. Johnson stated, “When Congresswoman DeGette says that her bill ‘will contain language outlawing reproductive cloning,’ she means, of course, language that would encourage human cloning but also make it unlawful to allow a human clone to develop past a certain point, a ‘clone and kill’ bill. Under the DeGette proposal, a specific group of members of the species Homo sapiens would be specifically marked for death by federal law.”

Wesley J. Smith, a top bioethicist and attorney is also alarmed with the trend on this sort of research. Smith stated, “The scientists’ used to tell us that all they want is leftover embryos for ESCR. That was never all they wanted, but the lie was a useful political tool to try and destroy the Bush federal funding policy. Once President Obama put that policy in the grave, I predicted the push would soon begin to fund human cloning research. And now, it is about to be brought forth as federal legislation.” Smith further warns, “Once the principle is accepted that living human beings can be objectified as a product, there is no way that enterprise will be limited to the earliest humans. Indeed, as I have often described, fetal farming is on the table and the already born weak and vulnerable are being looked upon by some as sources of organs and subjects for medical experimentation.” Smith concluded by stating, “Once we state that human life does not have intrinsic moral value simply and merely because it is human, there isn’t much that we can’t justify.”

Christians need to pay heed to what is happening in Washington RIGHT NOW. The culture of death crowd is rapidly taking over making it more and more difficult to stop the insanity that is taking place in our nation’s capitol. Obama thought he made a big impact when he recently stated he would not support reproductive cloning of humans. However, he slyly left the door wide open to therapeutic cloning, and that’s right where we are headed.

Satan is working furiously to confuse and confound folks in this culture of death that now surrounds us. Just like in the Garden of Eden when Satan deceived Eve, (Genesis 3:5, “God knows that when you eat it your eyes will be opened. You’ll be like God, knowing good and evil.”) Well, even though Eve’s eyes were opened, she certainly did not become like God. Like Eve, many are being deceived and trying to “play” God.

But, only God is the author and giver of life and man has no role in imitating God by creating life for the purpose of research.

Life Lines for June 14, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

On Sunday, May 31, 2009, George Tiller was gunned down while attending church services at Reformation Lutheran Church in Wichita, KS. Since 1973, Tiller had performed over 60,000 abortions, and thousands of these were late-term abortions or post 22 weeks gestation. 97% of Tiller’s patients were from out of state, making the state of Kansas the center of the American abortion industry.

The killing of George Tiller was the act of a deranged individual and was certainly not the answer to shutting down Tiller’s business of killing babies in the womb.Tiller had some legal battles looming on the horizon as a result of his abortion practice and that would have been the appropriate avenue to take in order to try and stop Tiller from killing more and more babies.The followers of the pro-life movement never condone the taking of a human life … any human life. In fact, the very opposite is true and pro-lifers work to protect the sanctity of all human life and the unlawful use of violence contradicts that very goal.

Of the eight total murders that have occurred at America’s abortion mills during the past 36 years, five were in 1993 and 1994 alone, under the Clinton administration. These years were referred to as the worst period of pro-life violence in American history. But that truth is more farmers and twice as many hairdressers were murdered on the job than abortion clinics combined. An objective analysis of this issue shows that the level of violence committed by people opposed to abortion has been grotesquely exaggerated and that the pro-life movement is, by far, the most peaceful socio-political movement of its size and tenure in American history.

To see the truth of that, all you have to do is study the other causes which are most similar: the anti-slavery, civil rights, and labor struggles. It is not opinion but provable fact that, in those movements, there were many times during which more violence was committed in a single day than has taken place in the entire 36-year history of the pro-life movement. But, the facts are easily ignored by the elite news media in our country.

Yes, the killing of Tiller the abortionist was a senseless act of murder and the person found guilty should be punished. But, does it reach the level of threat to the remaining abortionists to have U.S. Marshals ordered to begin protecting them at taxpayer expense? The abortion industry is a very lucrative business and if more protection is needed, they should pay for that protection themselves, not the U.S. taxpayers. But, Attorney General Eric Holder of the Obama administration gave the order for U.S. Marshals Service to begin protecting certain abortion business and abortionists. I have to wonder if faith-based pregnancy resource centers were threatened by pro-choice fanatics, would they be given the same protection by our government? James 1:20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.

Life Lines for June 21, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Father’s Day 2009

Pray for those fathers who have striven to balance the demands of work, marriage, and children with an honest awareness of both joy and sacrifice.

Pray for those fathers who, lacking a good model for a father, have worked to become a good father.

Pray for those fathers who by their own account were not always there for their children, but who continue to offer those children, now grown, their love and support.

Pray for those fathers who, despite divorce, have remained in their children's lives.

Pray for those fathers whose children are adopted, and whose love and support has offered healing.

Pray for those fathers who, as stepfathers, freely choose the obligation of fatherhood and earned their stepchildren's love and respect.

Pray for those fathers who have lost a child to death, and continue to hold the child in their heart.

Pray for those fathers who lost a child through the sin of abortion, either with or without their knowledge. Give them the peace that comes only from our Father in heaven.

Pray for those men who have no children, but cherish the next generation as if they were their own.

Pray for those men who have "fathered" us in their role as mentors and guides.

Pray for those men who are about to become fathers that they find much joy in their children.

Pray for those fathers who have died, but live on in our memory and whose love continues to nurture us.

Ephesians 6: 4. Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

Life Lines for July 5, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Yesterday our nation celebrated its 233rd birthday of freedom. But nearly fifty million American citizens have been denied the most basic of our freedoms, the right to life. Science has proven beyond a doubt that the embryo is a developing human. Embryologists can show us that within just a few weeks the embryo has developed recognizable features, including his or her face, arms and legs. Pope John Paul II stated, “from the time that the ovum is fertilized, a life is begun which is neither that of the father nor the mother; it is rather the life of a new human being with his own growth. It would never be made human if it were not human already. This has always been clear, and ... modern genetic science offers clear confirmation.”

It has demonstrated that from the first instant of fertilization, this new person is a unique individual with his/her characteristic aspects already well determined. Right from fertilization the adventure of a human life begins, and each of its capacities requires time to develop.

The opposition to the abomination of abortion is more than a partisan political position. For the Christian, this belief goes to the heart of the mystery that Christ came into this world to reveal to us. This mystery is reflected in our country’s founding document, which speaks of our being endowed by our Creator with rights that no one can take away from us or pretend that we don’t have — the first of these being the right to life.

Abortion is not only a Christian issue or a “matter of faith.” It concerns the most fundamental questions in any human civilization: Who gets to live and who doesn’t — and who gets to decide this question? Can one’s rights or freedoms include the right and freedom to extinguish the life of one who is weaker?

America has reached a tipping point in the battle for the sanctity of human life. Will Christians step forward and boldly demand that the killing of innocent human life must end. Or will the killing continue and expand even further under the Obama administration? It’s up to You! Life is a gift of God. It should be cherished. It should be nourished. It should be protected.

Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. If you say, "But we knew nothing about this," does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay each person according to what he has done? (Proverbs 24:11-12).

Life Lines for July 12, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

They can only be marginally productive.” That’s what Libertarian commentator Nicholas Provenzo said about a person with Down syndrome. Provenzo also stated that he was “troubled by the implications of … Sarah Palin’s decision to knowingly give birth to child disabled with Down syndrome.” Provenzo went on to say, “It is crucial to reaffirm the morality of aborting a fetus diagnosed with Down syndrome.”

In my opinion, Provenzo’s way of thinking is eugenics via modern medicine. In the United States more than 90 percent of babies diagnosed with Down syndrome are aborted. However, Provenzo’s statements makes it clear that he thinks 90 percent is not high enough. Provenzo has no grounds upon which he can criticize Sarah Palin or anyone else who chose to knowingly give birth to a disabled child. I’m sure Mrs. Palin and her family had misgivings, doubts and fears upon hearing that her child had Down syndrome. But in the end, she and her husband made a choice for life for their child. To know someone who has Down syndrome is to truly know love in its purest form.

If given the chance, I would like to ask Provenzo what he would have our country do about the citizens who become “marginally productive” when they get old? Do we cherish the elderly or are their lives worth preserving after they no longer able to be productive?

I fear that the rampant disregard for the beginnings of human life is only going to increase the call to do away with restraints on physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia as a person approaches the end of their life. Will our nation become like the Nazis and make judgment calls on “lives unworthy of living?”

When one stops and thinks about what is happening to the 90% of Down syndrome babies killed in the womb, it seems that a Down syndrome child should be declared an endangered species. There are no guarantees in life, either good or bad, so why should people demonstrate by their actions that a baby inflicted with Down syndrome should be a "life unworthy of life?"

Normal is a relative term and what society may consider abnormal is only based on society’s standard of physical perfection. God’s standard of one’s physical makeup is totally up to Him and what He creates is perfect in His eyes.

Certainly, physical imperfection is a result of mankind’s fall into sin, but God even uses one’s physical imperfection to glorify Him as He makes “all things work together for good”. Even if a baby has a so-called birth defect, God can use it to reveal the true worth of a human being is his or her spirit, which can shine bright even if the body is broken.

Romans 8:28. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Life Lines for July 19, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

This is the hardest Life Line article that I have ever attempted to write. I brought my husband home from Passavant Hospital (Jacksonville, IL) on Thursday, July 16, 2009 to care for him during his last days on earth.

The cancer has not been stopped through these long months of treatment and there is nothing left to try. So, now we begin our last journey on this earth together … the journey of letting go and sending him to his heavenly home.

I am simply functioning at this point in time, just doing what must be done and running on autopilot. I had already started grieving the loss of my husband’s health weeks ago, while he faced his growing dependence on me. Denial that your loved one can die from a devastating illness is a part of the process that you go through because facing the full force of the truth is too much to bear all at once. A final illness shatters the illusions you may have of self-sufficiency and control and Rich and I found ourselves involved in finding comfort within chaos as our old life was turned upside down. Accepting what cannot be changed, relinquishing control of the uncontrollable has been a big part of Rich’s illness for me. But, I reached a point, just in the past few days, that the key to all of it is handing over the burden of Rich’s cancer to God, where it belongs, and accepting the peace that this world cannot give.

Rich’s faith has never wavered during his illness, even on the very bad days. I know that God will not fail him now as he faces the final battle with this terrible disease.

Thank you to everyone who has prayed for both of us these past months.

Proverbs 3:5-6. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

Life Lines for July 26, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

The love of my life slipped into the arms of Jesus on Sunday morning, July 19, 2009 at 8:25 am. His battle with cancer was over and his new life in heaven began.

My children and I are left behind with hearts shattered into millions of pieces as we face the reality of our loss.

Rich lived a life of unshakable faith in God his entire life and it didn’t waver during his awful illness. While he didn’t want to endure the effects of the cancer, he never doubted that Jesus was with him and would be until his last breath took him to heaven. His patience during his illness was amazing, even on the bad days. Our daughters and I were blessed that the end came quickly and we were with him. Looking back I can see the hand of God in play that morning that Rich passed away. God whispered to me it was time to call the hospice nurse and my friend Lenore. After the hospice nurse left, Lenore arrived, and what a blessing that was for us. She knew what to do and helped to give Rich comfort during his last remaining hours on this earth.

Rich’s faith has made an impact on our daughters because they have revised a popular slogan “What Would Jesus Do” (WWJD) to “What Would Dad Do” (WWDD.)

I am a lucky woman to have won the love of such a kind and gentle man. God blessed me indeed.

Rich’s confirmation verse was John 14:6. “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” As I read that verse, I was led to the prior verses of John 1-4. "Don’t be troubled. Believe in God, and believe in me. My Father’s house has many rooms. If that were not true, would I have told you that I’m going to prepare a place for you? If I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again. Then I will bring you into my presence so that you will be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going."

Even though I want Rich here with me now, I know where he has gone because he knew the way. I kept the following verse by our bed throughout this final journey together and I still find great comfort in it. “Proverbs 3:5-6. Trust the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths smooth.”

Life Lines for August 2, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Remaining upbeat in the battle for the sanctity of human life in light of the current political makeup in Washington D.C. is not always easy. It seems that the pro-life movement is losing ground and the pro-death movement is gaining steam.

However, that is not necessarily the case. In 2005, the U.S. abortion rate declined to 19.4 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44, continuing the downward trend that started after the abortion rate peaked at 29.3 in 1981, according to a new Guttmacher Institute census of U.S. abortion providers. The abortion rate is now at its lowest level since 1974. The number of abortions declined as well, to a total of 1.2 million in 2005, 25% below the all-time high of 1.6 million abortions in 1990. And the federal Centers for Disease Control reported in its latest Abortion Surveillance Report that in 2004 there were 839,226 legal abortions, down 1.1 percent from 2003. The abortion ratio of 16 per 1,000 women has been the same since 2000, it added. Rebecca Wind, spokesman of the Guttmacher Institute, said the difference in the two sets of numbers reflects differences in data collection. She said the CDC relies on state health departments, and not all states require abortion statistics reporting. Guttmacher does its own survey of all legal abortion providers and reports a fairly high response rate.

In any case, she added, "There's no way to spin this one. The abortion rate is at its lowest rate since 1974.'' But on August 16, 2008, Barack Obama made the following statement to pastor Rick Warren in Lake Forest, CA. "The fact is that although we have had a president who is opposed to abortion over the last eight years, abortions have not gone down.'' Obama's statement is directly contradicted by statistics that show legal abortions have fallen since the start of the 21st century. This was not the first time that Obama has been caught being less than honest, but I continue to pray that Obama experiences a change of heart about the evil of abortion.

But we must be aware that if Obama’s version of the national healthcare plan passes, abortions will be paid for by the government and that will only put abortion numbers back on the increase

“I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that His justice cannot sleep forever.” ~Thomas Jefferson

Life Lines for August 9, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

The Illinois parental notification law that was originally passed in 1984 and revised in 1995 and was supposed to be enacted on Tuesday, August 4 has been delayed yet again. Parents in Illinois will have to wait another 90 days before getting the right to know when their minor daughters are considering an abortion. That's because the Medical Disciplinary Board voted Friday to give abortion practitioners more time to understand their obligation under the new state law that was finally slated to go into effect after more than a decade of waiting. The law had never been enacted due to haggling over court rules. The 90-day moratorium wouldn't protect violators from misdemeanor charges. Tom Brejcha, the president of the Thomas More Society, a Chicago-based pro-life legal group that sued to get the law to go into effect, says abortion practitioners have already had 14 years to prepare for the law and the grace period isn't needed. The legislature approved the law in 1995 but it took more than a decade for the Illinois Supreme Court to finally issue rules that the law requires for an appeals process for minors who want an abortion without telling their parents. Since that time, more than 50,000 Illinois teenagers have had abortions, including 4,000 who were 14 years-old or younger at the time of their abortion.

In essence the law states that a young woman under the age of 18 would be unable to obtain an abortion without the parents or an adult family member being informed. Of course, she can go to court and request the abortion in order to get around the law. The law does not require a parent’s consent, only to notify parents prior to the abortion procedure. The notice can be waived if the court rules that informing parents/guardians is not in the best interest of the teenaged woman or if she convinces the court she is mature enough to make her own decision. This is a glaring legal loophole in my opinion. In should come as no surprise that the Illinois chapter of the ACLU opposed the law. The Friday, July 31, 2009 edition of the Jacksonville Journal-Courier stated the ACLU is busy working outside of the courts to help girls navigate the legal process, including holding lawyer training sessions so that we will have a panel of pro bono lawyers who can take young women through the by pass process in their communities. How very sweet of the ACLU to work so hard to ensure that young teenaged women can still kill their unborn children.

When our youngest daughter Stephanie was a new driver she was ticketed for running a stop sign. We received a letter from the office of the Illinois Secretary of State informing us that she had received the moving violation. How sad that parents can be assured that the state was informing them of any moving violations their children received, but that same child can have an abortion, killing their unborn grandchild, without any knowledge of the event. It is becoming increasingly clear that there are forces at work, both seen and unseen, that have the aim of destroying our nation, our youth and our way of life. The Bible and the Truth it contains is the strongest defense against the things that are destroying our youth. Somehow, we have been lax in our commitment to raise up a generation of youth who fear and love the Lord. I don’t have the answers to the problems facing our youth today, but I feel strongly that they need meaningful sermons from the pulpit that address the temptations that they face in our society.

"For the preaching of the Cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God." (1 Cor. 1:18)

Life Lines for August 16, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

What do you picture in your mind when you hear the words pro-life? Do you conjure up images of folks praying outside of an abortion center, or carrying signs protesting abortion, euthanasia, or physician assisted suicide? Well, truth is, the pro-life movement is all of those things and much more, and it definitely more than banner waving, slogan chanting citizens. The pro-life movement, a vast heading that includes a number of diverse, independent organizations and their specific goals, is no different. In today’s society struggling to face and deal with the problems brought about by technological and medical advances, paired with the questions of human rights and dignity, pro-life activists have their work cut out. But a new trend in research called bioethics is providing a point of intersection between worldly views and the age-old questions of man's fundamental good.

Bioethics is a philosophical discipline that attempts to delve into issues in medical science and human behavior that deals specifically to the understanding of the human person and its well being. Since the ultimate goal of the pro-life movement is to educate and promote an understanding of the human person that underscores the dignity of human life from the point of conception to the point of death, bioethics has become a very important avenue for proponents of a pro-life position.

Looking at issues like abortion and contraception through the eyes of secular scientific research and analysis gives a solid foundation for pro-life arguments. More than just religious idealism or dogmatism, bioethics supports the idea that human life deserves to be respected and treated with dignity. By including all the various elements of bioethical research, the pro-life movement has continued to move toward an approach to human rights that is firmly grounded in the affirmations of medical science; and one that attempts to better illustrate the value of human life than was possible in the past. It’s always fascinated me that when the secular science world “discovers” something new, it can ALWAYS be backed up by the Word of God. But sadly, the secular world fails to recognize the bible as a resource for their scientific findings. James 1: 2-8. Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.

Life Lines for August 23, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

There is a lot of uproar, and rightly so, about the proposed Obama healthcare plan. I’m encouraged that our citizens are actually taking notice and speaking out against the proposed plan that the Obama administration is putting forth. By the same token, there are a lot of different ideas floating about concerning what the plan is all about. I went to a White House website titled Health Insurance Reform Reality Check just to check out what they had to say about including taxpayer funding of abortion.

Guess what? They are silent on the subject of abortion within the confines of this website. I found this rather peculiar since the Democrats claim that one of the biggest myths concerning the proposals in the healthcare plan is that taxpayer funds will be used to pay for abortions. I have to wonder why a website designed to debunk myths is silent on the subject of abortion.

Truth is, most Americans do not want abortion in their health coverage, and most consider themselves "pro-life," with a stronger majority among low-income Americans. About 80 percent of all hospitals do not generally provide abortions, and 85 percent of U.S. counties have no abortion provider.

By what right, then, and by what precedent, would Congress make abortion coverage into a nationwide norm, or force Americans to subsidize it as a condition for participating in a public health program?

I urge everyone to read the healthcare proposal for yourself and make your own judgment if you want nationalized healthcare or not. Here are just a few examples of some things that are definitely in the proposal that concern me.

Life Lines for August 30, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

There is much ado currently on healthcare reform and about what is included and what isn’t. Democrats claim that Republicans are spreading rumors and fostering unnecessary fear, and Republicans claim that Democrats are not being truthful.

I am concerned about healthcare reform as much or perhaps even more than the average person. I saw my husband suffer needlessly for months at the hands of a government run healthcare program administered through the VA system. He waited weeks for appointments only to be told he had a virus. After more weeks of being told it was a virus, he was then told it was pneumonia. We found out on March 27, 2009 that he had stage IV lung cancer and this was after he became ill and sought medical help in October of 2008. He went to heaven on July 19, 2009 because his cancer spread to both lungs while VA doctors were treating him for a virus and pneumonia.

So yes, I do not want to see a government run healthcare plan forced on Americans. Furthermore, I do not want to see a healthcare plan that includes taxpayer funding for killing babies in the womb or government oversight on end of life counseling. On July 17, 2008 while on the campaign trail, Obama had this to say about reproductive healthcare. “Well, look, in my mind reproductive care is essential care, basic care so it is at the center, the heart of the plan that I propose.” He further stated, "It’ll be a plan that will provide all essential services, including reproductive services, as well as mental health services and disease management services."

What is the definition of “reproductive health?” I visited the website for the WHO (World Health Organization) and I found their definition. It follows in part: “they have the capability to reproduce and the freedom to decide if, when and how often to do so. Implicit in this last condition are the right of men and women to be informed and to have access to safe, effective, affordable and acceptable methods of family planning of their choice.” In my opinion, reproductive healthcare, by its very definition, does indeed include abortion and I encourage everyone to not only look up the definition for yourselves, but to also research the proposed healthcare plan. All of this information is available on the web to you, as it was to me.

As Christians we cannot support our current government’s quest to expand the killing of unborn children by including abortion that is supported by federal tax dollars. Is the size of the baby what really matters? Shouldn’t life itself be worth protecting? Life begins at conception and it’s as simple as that. The egg is the woman’s, the sperm the man’s and when the two join it becomes no longer his or hers, but both and all its own. Anything that interferes with that life and prevents it from continuing, results in killing an unborn human.

Abortion is morally wrong because God’s Word says it is wrong. (Exodus 20:13) “You shall not murder.” All that was necessary to prohibit an abortion was the command, ‘You shall not murder.’ Simple, right? Need more convincing? Genesis 9:6. ‘Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed; for in the image of God He made man.’

All human beings are made in God’s image. Thus, if the unborn are human beings, killing them is forbidden because it is an attack on the image of God.

Life Lines for September 6, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

It seems that has recently made a decision to stop human trials involving embryonic stem cells. The reasons mirror the concerns pro-life advocates have had for years with the research, which has yet to help any patients. Geron Corporation had applied for permission to try injections of embryonic stem cells, which can only be obtained by destroying the lives of unborn children at their earliest stage of life, in humans.

But pro-life advocates said they didn't think it would work because of problems in animals.

When used in animal research, injections of embryonic stem cells formed tumors afterwards and also prompted the immune system of the intended recipients to reject the cells. The FDA delayed the trials to review studies of the therapy, called GRNOPC1, in its use with animals. Now, new reports indicate problems associated with the animals in Geron's studies prompted the FDA to halt the human trials. Specifically, the animals developed cysts at the injury sites after the injections. Noted bioethicist, Wesley J. Smith stated, "You know, tumors formed in a child given fetal cell treatments three years after the injection, and so I wonder how long an animal would have to be followed to determine safety.

And we can't forget that the company apparently has not tested the product in large animals, and so there is some swimming in the dark here," he added. "Nevertheless, the FDA did the right thing here in terms of pure safety."

Evan Snyder, a neuroscientist who heads up the stem cell research center at the Burnham Institute for Medical Research in San Diego, warns that the research may not be ready for humans.

"There's a lot of debate among spinal cord researchers that the pre-clinical data itself doesn't justify the clinical trial," Snyder, who is working on using neural stem cells himself, says. Snyder says the mice Geron used to conduct pre-human trial research had more excessive injuries that scientists would normally prefer to see prior to trying the procedure on human patients.

He suggests that Geron should have done experiments involving larger animals before seeking FDA permission to use the controversial embryonic stem cells in humans. Those concerns came to light as early as 2005 and may not have been addressed. Snyder said then that Geron should do more animal testing first to make sure the tests would be on the same injuries humans have.

"I'm not convinced they have done that yet," Snyder said.

It should come as no shock that Geron attempted to play down the concerns and issued the following statement. “A very low frequency of injected animals developed microscopic cysts in the regenerating injury site and the cysts were non-proliferative, confined to the injury site and had no adverse effects on the animals.” I wonder how they can issue a blanket statement such as this when it’s clear that the test animals were not followed for a significant length of time.

Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.

Life Lines for September 13, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

In the latest example of the mainstream media covering up what pro-life advocates already know and some media outlets have admitted, Newsweek's Eleanor Clift maintains that the Hyde amendment would stop abortion funding in health care.

But a leading pro-life expert says that's not the case.Clift's weekend column for the weekly magazine claims "opposition forces" (folks who think it’s just plain wrong to kill a baby in the womb) have been trying to 'spread misconceptions" about the government-run health care plan funding abortions. Clift's contention is that the Hyde Amendment, passed in the 1970s to stop abortion funding only in the Medicare program, will block abortion funding in the health care bill, but she needs to re-check her facts.

Clift goes on to say, "It has been the law for more than 30 years to disallow federal money to pay for abortions through the Medicaid program as part of the health services it provides for low-income women. There has been no serious effort in the last three decades to dislodge the Hyde amendment, and it is certainly not part of the current health-care debate. But that hasn't stopped critics from suspecting that Democrats are looking for a back-door way to fund abortions,"

However, Douglas Johnson, the legislative director for the National Right to Life Committee, says Clift's analysis is "very tendentious" and that her column reads more like a "Planned Parenthood fundraising letter" than a serious news article attempting to separate fact from fiction. "The Hyde Amendment is not a government-wide law. It is a limitation, renewed year to year, that applies only to funds that flow through the annual Health and Human Services appropriations bill -- most importantly, funds for the long-established Medicaid program," Johnson explains.

Johnson says the government-run health care bills in the House and Senate create new programs that do not fall under the jurisdiction of the Hyde Amendment. The first program is a national health insurance plan run directly by the federal government (called "the public option") and the second is a program to provide subsidies to help tens of millions of people buy health insurance.

'The funds to establish these new programs, and the funds that these new programs would expend, would not flow through the HHS appropriations bill and would not be governed by the Hyde Amendment," he said.

So what law would guide abortion funding in these new programs?

The Capps Amendment, which a House committee added to HR 3200 this summer, would set forth the guidelines that Johnson says allow expansive abortion funding. Johnson made the following statement concerning the Capps Amendment. "Under the Capps Amendment, the Obama Administration would be explicitly authorized to pay for all abortions, from day one, under the big new 'public option' program. This means that a person would not be allowed to enroll in the new government plan unless he or she is willing to pay an additional premium to cover the cost of elective abortions -- in effect, an abortion surcharge.

Indeed, the Capps Amendment explicitly requires that the federal official that runs the program must calculate the total cost of abortions and increase the premium for all enrollees enough to pay for them. The amendment specifies that this surcharge cannot be less than $12 per enrollee per year, but the amendment does not set an upper limit. Again, this premium specifically for elective abortions is not optional.

Thus, under the Obama-backed bill, a federal agency would be writing checks to abortionists to pay for elective abortions, with funds drawn on a federal Treasury account. This is 'government funding of abortion,' pure and simple. A vote for H.R. 3200 is indeed a vote for government funding of abortion on a huge scale.”

As the healthcare debate rages onward, we must all pray for wisdom for our leaders and they consider the Word of God in the debate. 1 Timothy 2: 1-2. I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

Life Lines for September 20, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Politicians and bureaucrats should not decide who gets medical care, when they get it and how they get it. Just because you are granted a right on paper does not mean you will have access to it. For a reference check, research the VA medical system. Not pretty.

President Obama made another pitch for his healthcare proposal on Sept. 9. I personally didn’t glean any new information from it in terms of how he plans to pay for it. However, I did catch some very misleading statements that I’ll cover a bit later.

Controlling healthcare costs seems to be the driving force behind Obamacare, but at what cost to the American people? Commissions will be set up by the OBama administration and will be making policy that will be beyond the control of Congress, unless very specific language is included in the legislation. If abortion is to be excluded from the new healthcare proposal, then language must be written into legislation strictly forbidding funding of abortions, because there are many ways around this loophole.

Here is what Obama had to say about abortion funding in his speech. He stated, “no federal dollars will be used to fund abortions and federal conscience laws will remain in place.” Seems pretty clear doesn’t it … or does it? Obama stated on July 17, 2008 while on the campaign trail “any plan that wants to be part of the government program has to include reproductive health care in it.” He further stated “reproductive healthcare is essential care, it is basic, so it’s at the center and heart of my healthcare plan.”

Reproductive healthcare is code word for abortions, confirmed by Hilary Clinton. It is a fact that a little over 70% of Americans are AGAINST taxpayer-funded abortions, yet that doesn’t stop those in power in Washington, DC. 11 amendments have been proposed banning abortion from the healthcare proposal and all 11 amendments were voted down. The NY Times, one of the most liberal newspapers in the country, reported on Sept. 11, “in practice public and private money (for the proposed healthcare plan) will all go into the same pot and the source of the money for any single procedure becomes a technicality.”

Abortionists will be issued checks for their services from the U.S. Treasury through the federal department of Health and Human Services. Obama can try and fool others into thinking that since funds are taken from the U.S. Treasury that it is not taxpayer funds, but he won’t fool me into thinking that. Obama has also stated that you will be MANDATED into the public healthcare plan … (even if you don’t want it.) If you don’t purchase healthcare, you will be taxed a 2.5% surcharge on top of taxes you already pay.

What our legislators need to address is Tort reform to bring down the cost of healthcare, not a more intrusive government in our lives. The proposed healthcare plan is GOVERNMENT CENTERED, not patient centered, so who will benefit the most from it? … the government and its politicians who crave power for themselves that’s who! The proposed healthcare plan creates more bureaucracy giving doctors less time with patients and more time filling out government forms. The government needs to get out of the way of doctors and let them treat patients.

I encourage everyone to research the proposed healthcare plan and draw your own conclusions about it. Help should be provided to those who truly need it, but not forced upon everyone else in order to achieve that.

James 1:5 . If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

Life Lines for October 4, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

When a woman wants a child but can’t afford one, because she hasn’t the education necessary for a sustainable job, or access to health care, or day care, or adequate food, it is the abysmal priorities of our nation, the lack of social supports, the absence of justice that are the tragedies; the abortion is a blessing.

And when a woman becomes pregnant within a loving, supportive, respectful relationship; has every option open to her; decides she does not wish to bear a child; and has access to a safe affordable abortion, there is not a tragedy in sight; only blessing.

The ability to enjoy God’s good gift of sexuality without compromising one’s education, life’s work, or ability to put to use God’s gifts and call is simply blessing. These are the two things I want you, please, to remember – abortion is a blessing and our work is not done. Let me hear you say it. Abortion is a blessing and our work is not done.”

Do I have your attention? No, these are not my words but a quote from Rev. Katherine Hancock Ragsdale from made a speech in 2007 who not only instructed her disciples to be pro-choice, but to be fanatically pro-abortion. This woman was also appointed on July 1, 2009 as president of Episcopal Divinity School near Harvard University in Massachusetts.

Ragsdale is a member of the board of NARAL Pro-Choice America and for eight years chaired the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Rights. I believe firmly in our right to free speech in this country, but I have to draw the line when someone purposely calls abortion “holy work” and spews forth this offensive speech from the pulpit. Ragsdale is also openly homosexual and takes aim at anyone who criticizes her choice and lifestyle by the same old argument of “we can’t help being gay.”

The tragedy of abortion is bad enough, but the origin of the tragedy, and so many others of our time, emerges from worship not of Christ but of "me, me, me” and twisting the Word of God to suit our own desires. Not everyone who preaches in Christendom is actually preaching what the Bible actually says. We need to line up everything we hear and read with Scripture and we need to read Scripture within its proper context. Katherine Ragsdale may show the tendency of “me, me, me” in a heightened form, but all of us display it to some degree. May God have mercy on her, on her students, and on all of us.

1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

Life Lines for October 18, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Pro-life residents who live in Illinois are being censored and most folks are probably unaware of this fact. Allow me to back up this claim with fact. On Monday, October 5, 2009 the U.S. Supreme Court refused to hear a pro-life group’s request to force a state to issue "Choose Life" license plates.

The high court on Monday left in place a federal appeals court ruling that state officials were within their rights in trying to keep viewpoints on abortion off of Illinois license plates. Choose Life Illinois, Inc. sued to force the state to issue the plates. The decision means that the Illinois officials who declined to issue the license plates in Illinois have won a legal victory against the pro-life advocates who wanted the plates to raise funds for adoptions. Despite the refusal to hear the case, motorists in 24 states can buy Choose Life license plates and 14 more states are working on them.

An appeals court ruled last November that Illinois officials who don't want to issue Choose Life license plates for state motorists don't have to do so. What are Illinois officials afraid of? Why are other special interest groups ALLOWED to have license plates issues in support of their cause while those of us who support the sanctity of human life are denied the same courtesy?

A few of the special interest groups who have license plates in Illinois are: Education, Environmental, Illinois Hospice, Master Mason, Pet Friendly (yes, that’s right … Pet Friendly), Prevent Violence, Organ Donor, and on and on. I have no issues with any of the groups who have special interest plates in Illinois but I do take issue with the fact that the residents in Illinois who are pro-life are denied the same right.

Steven Aden, senior legal counsel for Alliance Defense Fund stated, “The State of Illinois cannot treat the ‘Choose Life’ message differently than it treats other messages that advocate causes in a program that is open to all non-profit organizations. To do so is classic viewpoint discrimination, which is unquestionably unconstitutional."

Over 25,000 Illinois citizens had signed petitions for the “Choose Life” plate, with the proceeds slated to fund Illinois adoption agencies to help children find lifetime homes with loving families. But, that no longer matters because a new state law that the Illinois General Assembly passed requires specialty plate applicants to get a bill approved in the legislature and have the governor sign it.

As such, petitioners can no longer use the Secretary of State to get the plates approved but must go through the legislature. Furthermore, the 60 specialty plates issued by the state ranging from pet lovers to environmental causes and approved by Illinois authorities is a slap in the face to pro-life supporters because bills introduced in the General Assembly for the pro-life plates were diverted to a special subcommittee where they died without any hearing.

Secretary of State Jesse White claimed he did not have power to approve the plate himself, and when the federal trial court ruled that he did have such authority the legislature approved a new law requiring legislative approval for every new plate.

Should we just “sit back and take this” or should we act on this unjust action from our state officials? Each of us must prayerfully decide the answer to that question.

James 4:17 Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.

Life Lines for October 25, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

We celebrate Reformation Sunday today … a day when we should reflect on God’s good and gracious will for our lives.

Romans 3:19-28. Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God. Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin. But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished—he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded. On what principle? On that of observing the law? No, but on that of faith. For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law.

The truth of the Gospel is we are not saved, we are not put right with God by being good, or obeying the law or going through all the outward rituals of religion, or anything else we may try to do to make ourselves worthy before God.

We are saved by the intentional love and grace of God, freely and generously given to us through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Salvation comes to us as a free gift to us of God's grace. And yet even with that perfect gift of God’s loving grace we continue with strife and conflict in our daily lives.

In a quest to get their own way, people with different opinions struggle against each other and God each day. An example of opposing opinions is the current debate on healthcare reform. There are many groups with differing opinions on the proper way to resolve the problem and each group tends to think their solution is the best.

I believe that a great number of the folks involved in the healthcare debate are failing to look to God’s Word for answers. My prayer is that clear heads prevail and no federal funding for abortion or rationed healthcare is allowed.

Life Lines for November 8, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

I lost my husband on July 19, 2009 and there is hardly a waking minute during my day that I don’t think of him and miss him so very much. Everyone tells me my feelings are normal and that I am processing my feelings of grief. Sometimes my grief overwhelms me and I just want to curl up in a ball. Other times I lovingly remember the times we shared over 31 years of marriage. My husband is part of my past and I am in the present without him. I wish things could be different, but they’re not and I must face my life without him.

However, it occurred to me just today as I sat writing this article that although Rich is now a part of my past, he is also very much a part of my future. My future with Rich is something I can cling to and look forward to because we will be together in the very presence of God. What an awesome future I have in store as Rich awaits me in heaven.

July 19 was the time God had set aside to call Rich home to heaven. But, everyday in our nation, babies are killed in the womb and this is not a part of God’s plan for that tiny new life. These tiny lives are killed and tossed in the garbage (or sent to research facilities in exchange for monetary “grants” to the providing abortion facility) and it is legal.

I have to wonder if women who choose to kill their preborn babies look ahead to future? Do they believe that they can rid themselves of an inconvenience here on earth because the aborted child will have a future in heaven? The bible is not entirely clear on whether babies who die in the womb or are stillborn always go to heaven. But, as on most subjects, I do have an opinion, based on the Word of God.

Psalms 51:5-6 tells us, Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place. Verse 5 lays it on heavy with Law as we are told that we are all sinners, even from the time of conception. But, verse 6 tells us that God can give wisdom and faith even to the unborn child.

God looks out for our welfare, even in the womb of our mother. God knit us together in our mother’s womb and He loves us whether born or unborn. He showed His love for us by sending His son Jesus to die on the cross for ALL!

So if an aborted child is allowed into heaven that child is only there because of what Jesus did on the cross. So as Jesus said, no one comes to the Father except through Him. There is no other way.

Life Lines for November 15, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

It seems our courts are in a sort of tennis match concerning the Illinois parental notification law on abortion. After a federal appeals court ordered it implemented recently, the American Civil Liberties Union filed suit in state court. Two state boards decided to halt their role and proceed with compliance, but that was short-lived, according to Peter Breen of the Thomas More Society Pro-Life Law Center.

 "At 10:00 we had parental notice in the state of Illinois for the first time since Roe v. Wade -- and then by 3:00 a circuit court judge had enjoined it," Breen explains. “He allowed a temporary restraining order to keep the law from going into effect."

That leaves Illinois as the only state in the Midwest or the South with no parental notification law. “As a result,” says Breen, “Planned Parenthood of Illinois is making more money.” Breen added, “We get young ladies coming in from Minnesota. We get them coming in from Arkansas, from Tennessee, from Missouri -- of course from Wisconsin and Indiana, which are right next to us. Illinois has become a dumping ground for abortion." (Add this distinction to Illinois being the most politically corrupt state in the Union.)  

The court has put the case on an expedited timeline, with the next hearing scheduled for November 19. Breen is hopeful that will finally end the 12-year legal battle and put the law into effect. There is a provision allowed in the law which allows pregnant minors to bypass parental notification by going before a judge, who would then have 48 hours to rule on the petition. Lawyers for the ACLU have raised questions about whether courts in some jurisdictions, mainly rural areas, are prepared for the waiver process.

But, a reasonably thinking person might add that a good parent, a loving parent, might have something to say about their minor child obtaining an abortion. If that proves not to be the case, then the bypass procedure would come into play. As the law currently stands, a parent or guardian would not be required to give consent for the procedure but they would need to be notified if their teenager is planning to have an abortion.

No notice is required in the case of a medical emergency or if the girl declares in writing that she is a victim of sexual abuse. The responsibility is on the clinics to make sure a parent is kept in the loop before the abortion is performed. The law states that the abortion provider must give notice directly, by phone or in person, but it provides exceptions in cases where the parent, grandparent, stepparent in the household or legal guardian is difficult to reach.

The preceding sentence makes me wonder why the ACLU is all in a dither about the law because there is clearly an opening for blatant abuse in the language of the law. In other words, no one is going to police the killing centers making sure that the law is being followed. Furthermore, who determines how hard the killing center must try to reach a guardian?

This is just another example of the complicated times we live in and the doubt and mistrust that surrounds our government and its laws. We must put our trust and faith in God because he gave humans a responsibility to work in tandem with Him in such a way that reflects His glory. Sin just increases our need to be bold in speaking for the weak and those who cannot speak for themselves.

Nehemiah 4:4-5. Hear us, O our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads. Give them over as plunder in a land of captivity. Do not cover up their guilt or blot out their sins from your sight, for they have thrown insults in the face of the builders.

Life Lines for November 22, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

The Forgotten Victims

Our nation is knee-deep in healthcare reform and there has been a lot of focus on abortion as part of the package, and rightfully so. However, there is another threat to Americans looming in the language of the bill that should have our citizens equally concerned, namely rationing of care.

Folks, this is a very real threat to Americans and we had better take heed to what is happening. In the proposed language of the Senate bill, physicians would be punished if their “resource use” were too high. Medicare (the government) would access physicians and rank them against their colleagues based on how much they cost Medicare and consequently cut all payments made to physicians by 5% who find themselves in the 90th percentile, or above.

Now 5% is a rather hefty fine to impose on a physician who is doing his/her job by providing the best medical possible for patients in his/her care. Take that 5% fine and place it along side the price controls already in place (Medicare pays on average 83¢ on the dollar) and it adds up to a significant amount of money. So how do physicians try and get around this rule? Simple … they will choose between providing care and risking their own income or cut back on tests, treatments, and drugs prescribed to their patients.

There, you have it … rationing of healthcare. Who are the patients in line to be most affected by this outrageous legislation … the elderly, the disabled and the terminally ill, that’s who! Also, if the 5% fine is imposed on physicians who fall into that 90th percentile range, there will be one in every ten physicians annually who will face that fine because of the very nature of the way the legislation currently reads. To me this means that physicians will have to worry about whether they are going to fall into that 5% fine trap instead of concentrating on treating their patient’s needs and giving them the best care possible.

Take the time to research what is happening to our current healthcare system and let our congressional leaders know that we do not want our physicians to choose between income and care of patients.

1 Timothy 5:8 But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

Life Lines for November 29, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

Pure Flix Entertainment has released another in a series of pro-life films recently. The new straight-to-DVD film titled “Sarah’s Choice” stars the popular Christian pop singer Rebecca St. James in her first full-length acting role.

The movie features a young career woman fast tracking success in the corporate world when she finds herself pregnant and unmarried. Though her friends and co-workers insist that she has the right to choose a path that offers a successful career and seemingly unlimited material rewards, Collins comes to consider another choice following a series of nightly visions and the words of a mysterious stranger.

St. James felt her role in the film gave her a greater understanding of the pressure and fear that can be heaped upon any woman who finds herself in that situation. But, St. James feels that the pro-life message within the movie will help young women choose life for their child in an unplanned pregnancy. She was quoted as stating “"I came away from the movie with a real passion to positively impact this cycle with the message of God’s heart for the unborn.”

This movie joins the ranks of other pro-life films such as “Bella”, “Juno” and “22 Weeks.” I look forward to viewing this latest pro-life film and I encourage everyone to do the same. I hope that I find after viewing the film that it’s another one that the pro-death folks will hate and pile on bad reviews. That will mean that pro-life supporters are continuing to make a difference.

Proverbs 1:29-31. Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord, since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways.

Life Lines for December 6, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

I am 57 years old and in my lifetime, smoking has been dramatically reduced because the collective consciousness of the country has changed.

What lead to this change was a media blitz on the harmful effects and by the warning of the Surgeon General of the U.S. The media hasn't helped the pro-life story at all. The only solution now is the grassroots strategy of educating as many folks as possible about the ugly truth of abortion.

Remember, there is no God-given right to any abortion; so far the right has been granted by man alone and we have let them get away with it. The Preamble to the US Constitution calls on us to protect not only our rights, but also the rights of our posterity [future generations].

Rom 1:20 For the unseen things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being realized by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, for them to be without excuse.

When they look at those pictures and hear the horror stories God has promised they will know a grave injustice has been done.

Rom 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, pleasing to God, which is your reasonable service.

Rom 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, in order to prove by you what is that good and pleasing and perfect will of God.

Rom 12:3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to every one who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think. But set your mind to be right-minded, even as God has dealt to every man the measure of faith.

The American public had their minds renewed by man to believe a choice to murder is just and righteous. Now it's your turn to show them the fruits of their desires when they worship at the altar of temporal pleasures at the expense of innocent life.

Life Lines for December 27, 2009
Written by Jeanne Strubbe
Life Ministry Coordinator
Salem Lutheran Church, Jacksonville

As a warning to the readers of this week’s article, it is very blunt about abortion and the Black community. The left often celebrate the abhorrent practice of abortion as 'a woman's right to choose.' However, the movement which seems to be the cornerstone of liberalism was actually designed to eradicate Black people. Abortion-on-demand has, in fact, been responsible for a genocide in the black community.

In 1921, Margaret Sanger founded the American Birth Control League which eventually became known as Planned Parenthood. Sanger was a racist who advocated eugenics, so-called 'selective breeding', euthanasia, sterilization, and abortion. She published several books in which she often referred to Blacks as "genetically unfit" and "human weeds."

Sanger promoted something she called "race hygiene" for groups of people of whom she apparently thought had no self control nor any real purpose. In her 1920 book, “What Every Girl Should Know,” she said: "It said that a fish as large as a man has a brain no larger than the kernel of an almond. In all fish and reptiles where there is no great brain development, there is also no conscious sexual control. The lower down in the scale of human development we go, the less sexual control we find. It is said that the aboriginal Australian, the lowest known species of the human family, just a step higher than the chimpanzee in brain development, has so little sexual control that police authority alone prevents him from obtaining sexual satisfaction on the streets."

You will never hear talk such as this from any pro-abortion activist. In fact, the organization which Sanger founded has tried to hide her racist motivations and claim that some of the hateful quotes attributed to the woman who could easily be described as the American Hitler, were simply taken out of context. Planned Parenthood has a section of their website dedicated to Sanger in which she is painted as a cross between Mother Theresa and Medgar Evers. But let’s examine a few telling quotes from Sanger.

"Eugenics is...the most adequate and thorough avenue to the solution of racial and social problems." Birth Control Review, October 1921

"Our failure to segregate morons who are increasing and multiplying...demonstrates our foolhardy and extravagant sentimentalism." The Pivot of Civilization, 1922

"Eugenic sterilization is an urgent need. We must prevent multiplication of this bad stock." Birth Control Review, April 1933

"Birth control must lead ultimately to a cleaner race." Woman, Mortality, and Birth Control, 1922.

Despite the preceding collection of well-documented racist quotes by their founder Margaret Sanger, Planned Parenthood makes the following statement on their website: "There is no evidence that Sanger, or the Federation, intended to coerce Black women into using birth control."

While there is no doubt that the roots of the abortion movement stem from a great hatred of Black people, it would seem that Planned Parenthood's desire to kill Black babies is just as strong today. Over 78 percent of that organization's abortion clinics are located inside or within close proximity to Black neighborhoods. While Blacks make up only 12 percent of the population, they account for 36 percent of this nation's abortions. According to the Center for Disease Control, there were 11,156,700 Black babies aborted between 1973-2001.

Today, that number is estimated to be at least 13,000,000. We hear so much how violence is taking a tremendous toll on the Black community and of course it is, but it cannot begin to compare to disaster of abortion. 13 MILLION Black babies have been killed by abortion since 1973. This dream of genocide was a dream of liberal elitists such as Margaret Sanger, and continues today.

The next time you hear someone touting the Roe v. Wade decision which brought about “the right to choose“...ask them to finish the sentence...Roe v. Wade actually brought about the right to choose to eradicate Black children!

Together we are called to minister to all of God’s people and show special tenderness and care for those who are vulnerable.

Psalm 82: 34. 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.