A Softened Heart
A Softened Heart By Courtney Shope, Staff Nurse
It had been one of those weeks. Sickness riddled my household for what felt like an eternity. As I was snuggling my feverish toddler, I opened my laptop to review my scheduled patients for the next day, as I routinely do. Then I saw it- an abortion minded patient scheduled for the next day. It was like I could feel Satan trying to tear me down and get me to my lowest so that I wouldn’t be at my best to counsel this young girl who so desperately needed to hear the truth.
So, I started praying. First of all, for the patient to show up. Then, I prayed for her to have a softened heart open to hearing and seeing the truth. I also prayed for a dancing baby on that screen, with little arms and legs so that she could see the reality that she is carrying a human life.
She came, and so did her boyfriend. She was flat and guarded. When asked about her intention for the pregnancy, she said “probably an abortion.” I could tell she was hurting deep in her heart. I spoke to her light-heartedly, reassured her that I am not here to judge her but instead to take care of her. I explained the nature of the ultrasound. She agreed, and sat on the exam table while I prepared to place the transducer on her abdomen. Often, I picture Jesus standing beside me with His hand on my shoulder, and I remember I am not alone in performing this scan. He will carry me through regardless of the decision that the patient makes. I remain obedient to what He asks, and He will carry the rest.
The next moment I will remember forever. There was a 10 week baby on the screen, wiggling all around and showing off its beautiful little arms and legs. I looked over at my patient and she gasped, her face lit up with shock and joy. I was so taken off guard; I did not expect such a reaction. But that’s what God can do- he can soften hearts in an instant. What a blessing to be a witness to that.
I printed her photos of her baby and she could not stop looking at them. I involved the boyfriend because I know he can be a huge influence on her decision, and he commented “it’s so much more developed than I thought” and “it’s just like its parents” when it was wiggling all around.
After the scan, I sat with her alone, just us. I asked her how she was feeling after having the ultrasound. She stuttered, and said “I… I… might… change my mind.” She saw the truth on that ultrasound screen, and the Lord worked on her heart. The final outcome I may never know, but I do know that the truth was shown to this couple, and their hearts did recognize and respond to it. My prayer is that they choose life. But that burden cannot be mine to carry- I have to give that over to God and continue in steadfast prayer. And prayer can change everything.
“And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
~John 8:32