Football season is starting, baseball is winding down and basketball seems to run forever! In every sport, a champion seems to rise to the top. He or she often has a compelling story of overcoming adversity or pushing through pain to excel in their sport. We are inspired by these champions. The sport leagues and ESPN love the champions because they are money makers for the sports industry.
There are other champions as well. In the Bible, David was a champion against Goliath. He was critical of his brothers for their unwillingness to step up to the giant who daily ridiculed the God of Israel. David later choose “Mighty Men”, each champions in their own right, to become leaders in his army. The prophets were champions of God, preaching against the evil times and kings who “did evil in the sight of God”.
Today, the Bakersfield Pregnancy Center needs champions as well. Yesterday in our morning prayer time, I asked our staff and volunteers to pray for a “champion for the BPC in every church”. One person who would remember our ministry in prayer, in giving and in visibility at their church. That one person who would remind their pastor to speak out regarding the Sanctity of Life, that would encourage their congregation for pray for the women of our community facing unplanned pregnancies, who would vote for pro-life issues, and include us in their missions focus, their women’s ministry, men’s ministry or youth outreaches. Following that time of prayer, I had the incredible privilege to meet with Robin Robinson of Canyon Hills Assembly of God. We began with typical introductions and sharing basic information at the Bakersfield Pregnancy Center. Then, Robin leaned over and asked me “Erin, how I can be a champion for you?” She had no idea we prayed for those very words that morning! God is so amazing to hear our every prayer!
Isaiah 19:19-20 “In that day there will be an altar to the Lord in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar to the Lord near its border. It will become a sign and a witness to the Lord of hosts in the land of Egypt; for they will cry to the Lord because of oppressors, and He will send them a Savior and a Champion, and He will deliver them.” The Lord God keeps his promises-He has sent a Savior and a Champion, Jesus Christ the Lord. Jesus then calls us to follow Him, to become like Him. Become a Champion. Would you be willing to be a champion in your church for us? If so, please contact me personally and lets talk about how God can use us both to protect the children not yet born.