I’d rather write about something else.  But this is what’s on this pastor’s heart today.  Lord willing, on this Sunday morning I will hold a precious little life in my arms and pray a prayer of dedication for that baby and the baby’s parents.  The parents’ simple desire is to commit themselves to bring their child up in, as Ephesians 6:4 says, “the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”  Then on Tuesday we face the 46th anniversary (I wonder if “anniversary” is really a good word for it…) of the Roe v. Wade decision by our Supreme Court that essentially legalized abortion in the United States.  And 60 million+ unborn lives taken later, here we are.  The point is, the life I’ll hold in my arms this Sunday didn’t begin that afternoon a couple of weeks ago when she came into this world.  It didn’t begin at some certain point in a certain trimester of the mother’s pregnancy.  The little life we will dedicate to the Lord this weekend miraculously began when He gave life at the moment of conception.  And that life from that moment was sacred.  We’ll rejoice in that fact this Sunday.  However, let’s also be reminded of the fact that every day thousands of unborn lives are being snuffed out.  And what are we doing about it?  Are we reaching out to our elected officials to share this concern?  Are we taking a stand when given the opportunity, speaking out for the unborn?  Are we doing what we can to come alongside and encourage an expectant mother to choose life for her baby?  Most importantly, are we engaging in prayer for our nation and sharing the life-changing gospel with others?  Honestly, it’s the saving power and forgiveness of Christ that will make the biggest difference in this battle.  May each one of us find a way to be involved and to make a difference.  Why?  Lives are at stake.  Literally.