Singer-songwriter Jim Croce wanted to save time in a bottle, but Burt Bacharach believed that what the world needs now is love – not just for some, but for everyone. I agree with Burt. Having time but less love might lead to more senseless acts of violence like the one (in Minneapolis that) our nation is mourning.
When questioned about the greatest commandment of all, Jesus answered with two: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself.” These two go hand-in-hand. As our love for God deepens, it naturally grows our heart for loving others.
Burt Bacharach also observed that “love was the only thing there is just too little of.” Sometimes we see that “too little” at Lighthouse when the partner of a pregnant woman threatens to leave her if she continues with their pregnancy. Or the baby’s father abandons her just before the baby is due. Other times I’ve witnessed it when a young man wants to be a good parent, but has not experienced the love of a father in his own life.
Lighthouse responds to this shortage by bringing God’s love to life. We extend a small measure of God’s unconditional love to those facing unexpected pregnancies, parenting challenges, relationship struggles, or post-abortion pain. Our free services and ongoing support – funded and fueled by those who have experienced God’s love in their own lives – expresses that love in practical ways. For some, it is a free ultrasound to medically confirm pregnancy when they have no insurance or no one to turn to; for others, it is a listening ear throughout their pregnancy journey that equips them emotionally, spiritually and materially to be a loving parent. For teens looking for love in the wrong places, it is guidance toward wise choices that protect their hearts and future. For those hurting from a past abortion, Lighthouse offers a confidential place to discover they are not alone and that healing is possible.
The New Testament makes another extreme statement about love. “Perfect love drives out fear,” we are told in I John 4:18. At Lighthouse, we see that even imperfect love can overcome the fear a newly pregnant mom or dad is feeling. As love is brought to life, those we serve can see past the fear of the moment to make wise life-giving, life-transforming choices.
During this uncertain season, Lighthouse is asking friends to push past our own fears, and fill a bottle with love – a virtual baby bottle. Every other spring, we would be distributing baby bottles to be filled with cash, checks or change to fund the free services that bring God’s love to life. But this spring is different, so our bottles are virtual, but the need for your generous support is very real.
I pray you will join us with a gift today at www.LighthouseBabyBottle.org so there is more love in our world tomorrow.