For you formed my innermost parts; You knit me together in my mothers womb. I will give thanks and praise to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from You, when I was being formed in secret, and intricately and skillfully formed (as if embroidered with many colors) in the depths of the earth. Your eyes have seen my unformed substance; and in your book were all written the days that were appointed for me when as yet there was not one of them even taking shape.

Psalm 139:13-16

These verses spoken by a young woman named Katie Shaw, a pro-life leader born with Down Syndrome. Among her were many other young kids and adults, parents and caregivers, advocating for LIFE in the womb during a recent local Senate Healthcare & Judiciary committee hearing. I sat in awe and with absolute honor for the privilege to listen to testimony after testimony of children with Down Syndrome using their voice to advocate for babies with Down Syndrome and their right to live. The power of their voice and life lived in that moment rocked me to the core. I came to pray and support the NC Human Life Non-discrimination Act (HB453) by meeting with legislatures and using my voice on behalf of the church. Yet I received much more within as I walked the legislative halls with an 11-year old boy with Down Syndrome and his beautiful mom. There was no excuse as he faithful passed out homemade thank you cards for officials that supported the bill and then continuing on to meet with those yet to vote when the bill reaches the Senate. He endured hours of already sitting, speaking, and walking the halls where at one point he laid down contesting for food time! His story and countless others I heard that day touched my heart. Oh the fire that whaled up inside me! Where is the church? Why are not more of us speaking up, showing up, and advocating for LIFE? Yes we must PRAY, first and foremost but then we must put our feet to prayer! We already know God’s position on this – LIFE!

There is this LIE going around about separation of church and state. The church was never supposed to be silent on issues of government. Instead, the state was not to impede on religious liberty. We, the church, can no longer sit back and be quiet. Our government most certainly needs prayer but I dare say even more so, the church needs prayer and an awakening of her destiny and position in Christ to advocate confidently on behalf of the heart of the Father.

Listen again to the words of Psalm 139. Be reminded of the beauty and detail of our Creator forming you, me, everyone in our mothers womb. He knows every detail. He did not get it wrong. You are a masterpiece! Let’s celebrate LIFE, your life and the many more to come because of your birthday!

Choose life, so that you and your children may live

Deuteronomy 30:19

Ashley Shuell, Journalist for Jesus 💕🇺🇸