Faith by itself, without works, is DEAD

“The Approach” by Dave Hoefler

Roe v. Wade has been overturned [June 24, 2022].

Ok, but what does ‘overturned’ mean in this case? Simply put, there is no longer a federal constitutional right to abortion — each State will determine if/when abortions are legal.

Ok, now what? We act. No matter your religion, your political party, your race, your education, your income — you ACT.

As a Mississippian, this decision will have a high impact on our State. We already have the highest infant mortality rate, one of the highest pre-term birth rates, and above average maternal mortality rate. Black women in Mississippi are three times as likely as white women to die of pregnancy-related complications [Mississippi Today, June 24, 2022].

Ok, how can we act? Great question! Experience has taught me that a ‘war of words’ may only strengthen the divide. Before you find yourself in the middle of a ‘war’, consider implementing a few ‘rules of engagement’:

1. Silence — show restraint of your words. Be a safe place.
2. Listen — to your family, your friends, your co-workers, your community. Do not just ‘hear’ their voices, listen with thoughtful attention, and give consideration.
3. Empathize — sense their emotions, intentionally ‘put yourself in their shoes’, even though you do not…