God's Hand: His Timing & Purpose
As I navigate this new position as the Men’s Program Manager at Crossroads Pregnancy Center, I sometimes find myself having unplanned conversations—at least in an earthly sense. I know that God often orchestrates our encounters, as part of His greater plan.
A few weeks ago I was showing one of our offices to a prospective volunteer. After he left, I stayed to catch up with the Client Service Manager and the Staff Nurse. It was a medical day at that office and there was a couple scheduled for an ultrasound. I was told that they were abortion-minded*. I am glad I just happened to be there when they arrived. As the woman was taken into the exam room I had a wonderful opportunity to speak with Shane**—her partner and the baby's father.
While we talked, Shane’s face shone as he held his 6-month-old baby. As he told me about his life and the mistakes he has made, Shane mentioned that he knows that God has a plan for everyone. I used this opportunity as an open door to speak with him about Christ’s love for him and how far Christ has brought him out of his former life. I shared that Jeremiah 1:5 talks about how God knows each of us before He had even formed us and that He has also set us to do great things for His kingdom.
But as we all know, sometimes life gets in the way. Shane’s past has led him down paths that caused the loss of many relationships including relationships with his other children. Thankfully, he did choose to stop using alcohol and is currently being treated for drug addiction. Now he is finding the joys of sobriety and of holding a steady job. He says it is great having an income.
The entire time we were chatting Shane was so very attentive to his baby. I pointed out to Shane how great of a dad he is and how his life has changed for the better in the past year. I mentioned this new pregnancy and the life that it represents. My goal in this conversation was to encourage and edify. I wanted to show the love of Christ in this difficult time and to let Shane know Crossroads will be there every step of the way.
When his girlfriend came out of the exam room, she said that they had some thinking to do and he agreed. Looking back I can see God’s greater hand working on this couple’s heart. What a blessing it is to be a part of this work at Crossroads and know how one interaction can plant a seed of hope in times of need.
Client Story by Jay, Men’s Program Manager
*Abortion-determined is a term we use when women have expressed their intent to get an abortion. We also use the term Abortion-vulnerable or minded when women express less intent but are unsure and in situations where they feel it's an option. They have not yet decided to parent their baby.
**Names changed to protect confidentiality.