Three things pro-lifers must do in a post-Roe America

OPINION:

The earth-shattering leak of the Supreme Court’s draft opinion indicating the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision is likely to be overturned has sent the nation into nothing short of a tizzy.

Many progressives have entered into full-throttle meltdown mode, panicking over the impending judgment. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Massachusetts Democrat, visibly shaken with rage as she appeared Tuesday outside the Supreme Court, implored Congress to take action — and lambasted Republicans.

“They have been out there plotting, carefully cultivating these Supreme Court justices so they could have a majority on the bench who would accomplish something that the majority of Americans do not want,” Ms. Warren ranted in between panicked stares. 

And Rep. Eric Swalwell, California Democrat, bizarrely tweeted his claim that Republicans “want to ban interracial marriage,” while others speculatively worried the GOP will plot to dismantle gay marriage. The disheveled panic is showing no signs of subsiding.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the aisle, conservatives and Christians are cheering the decision. Pro-life activist Abby Johnson proclaimed, “This is the news we have been waiting for for 50 years.” She’s certainly right. The dismantling of Roe has been a longtime conservative dream.

But with a pro-life victory likely on the horizon, there are some essential considerations. Mainly: How should Christians and conservatives behave in a post-Roe America? 

Here are three key elements to guide us all:

Prepare to change hearts

Changing the law is one thing, but fundamental transformation starts in the heart. Amending or tossing out Roe can only go so far. Conservatives and Christians need to be ready to engage in conversations and efforts that showcase the tragic nature of abortion — and its profound impact.

A complete overturning of Roe would mean each state has the power and ability to set abortion restrictions. While states such as Texas would certainly continue pushing limitations, places like New York and California likely would ramp up abortion protocols. 

The national battle over abortion is certain to become 50 smaller skirmishes, each with a unique set of legal elements and impact. To properly change hearts and minds, understanding this dynamic must be baked into the outreach process.

Truly changing the trajectory of abortion in America — and really making it “unthinkable,” as so many advocates have so pined — requires breaking through the spiritual blinders so many have to help them see the true horror of murdering innocents.

Meeting the needs of mothers and children

Secondly, pro-lifers in a post-Roe America must prepare to fill in the gaps. Make no mistake: Christians and conservatives are already more likely to adopt, donate and help those in need. The unique ministries assisting mothers and families shouldn’t be downplayed.

But now is the time for pro-lifers to step on the gas and up the ante. From filling registries for pregnant moms to connecting children and families with resources, conservatives and Christians need to be the hands and feet of Jesus more so now than ever before.

Ms. Johnson, a longtime advocate of helping mothers, routinely creates and fills Amazon registries for expectant moms. You could join efforts such as hers, though nothing is stopping you and your church from starting something new. 

Either way, the post-Roe era is the pro-life movement’s moment to shine and help bridge the gaps in powerful ways.

Pray, pray, pray

Finally, we all need to pray, pray, pray. Prayer is powerful, and, as stated, the abortion battle won’t end, even if Roe is eviscerated. 

The desperate need for heart change and transformation will persist. Fears among women in difficult situations will continue. Needs will remain plentiful. States such as New York and California likely will become travel hubs for those seeking to end pregnancies. 

Prayer will remain a powerful tool for those hoping to see God’s love transform and restore. Regardless of what the Supreme Court decides, the battle is just heating up. So, let’s prepare to change hearts, meet needs, and turn to the Almighty for guidance and hope. 

• Billy Hallowell is a journalist, commentator and digital TV host who has covered thousands of faith and culture stories. He is the director of content and communications at Pure Flix, and previously served as the senior editor at Faithwire and the former faith and culture editor at The Blaze.