By Pamela Palumbo, CEO
During this season of Advent, and especially as Christmas draws near, we are invited to practice patience. Our hymns remind us of what we await—a silent night filled with quiet expectation as the time approaches for the Christ child to be born. Children can hardly sleep on Christmas Eve, eagerly anticipating the good gifts waiting for them under the Christmas tree. Friends and family look forward to sharing time together – yet must wait for the agreed-upon time and day.
In the midst of the hustle and bustle, the Lord invites us to pause and linger in expectation rather than rushing ahead. Abigail’s story reminds us of the beauty and importance of waiting for the good gifts of Jesus.
Abigail and her boyfriend Kyle were engaged and had decided to wait until their marriage to have sex. But like so many, the waiting became difficult – – – and now Abigail was pregnant.
The young couple were both Christian and Abigail’s father was a pastor. They knew better. How could they have let this happen? What would her father think? Why didn’t they wait? Was God disappointed in them?
Abigail came to the clinic in what she described as a total “meltdown.” Her volunteer counselor let Abigail express all of her concerns, emotions and feelings. They slowly outlined all of Abigail’s options and discussed each one.
Abigail and her counselor also discussed her desire to recommit to abstinence. She said that she knew her fiancé would honor that decision.
Most of all, Abigail was reassured that God is never disappointed in His children. His love is abiding and patient, and He always welcomes us when we return to Him.
After learning about the abortion process, Abigail knew she wouldn’t be able to bring herself to abort her baby. “Kyle and I both believe that children are a gift from God,” she said, “regardless of how they get here.”
Joyfully, Abigail chose life. She and Kyle entered a new stage of waiting – waiting eagerly for their marriage, and anticipating the birth of their child.
“Our session helped me to think clearly,” Abigail said later. “Our conversation was so much of a confirmation of God’s continual love for me!”
She and Kyle welcomed a sweet baby girl last spring.
Abigail’s story is a reminder that waiting is rarely easy—but it is often where God meets us with gentleness and hope. Because compassionate care and truth were available at just the right moment, Abigail found the courage to choose life and step forward in faith.
Your partnership makes stories like hers possible, ensuring that when someone walks through our doors in fear or confusion, they are met with patience, love, and the hope of Christ.
Thank you for being part of the reason another family now celebrates new life.
In peace and anticipation,
Pamela