I interviewed a couple in Pathways Radio and they had a wonderful story. It happened when they were still living outside the Philippines several years ago. During that time they were not planning to have another child. They already had three and raising another one in a foreign country will be difficult.
One day, she found out that she was pregnant. This was further confirmed after undergoing another pregnancy test in the hospital.
They had mixed emotions but they considered the baby a blessing. She had to undergo the mandatory pre-natal screening to determine if the baby is prone to any birth defect. The surprise of having this 4th child was nothing compared to the shock they got when the screening results came out. It showed that the baby will have a congenital disorder called Down syndrome. They were still in disbelief with sad news when the hospital personnel offered a solution - “Why not terminate the baby? By law, you are still allowed to terminate it at this stage."
There was awkward silence in the room. The husband did not know how to react. The wife was speechless. The hospital staff waited for their "yes". But for this Christian-Catholic couple abortion was never an option. They said a short prayer and replied - “Sorry, we will keep this child.” The hospital staff cannot understand their decision. The couple signed a waiver to release the hospital from responsibility from the decision they made.
Trials in life are unavoidable but destruction is optional. Life is precious and should be valued at whatever stage. When you are facing a difficult situation your CHARACTER should be bigger than your CIRCUMSTANCE. You cannot always control what happens but you can always choose how to respond. Always choose what is right. Choose what is pleasing to God. Always choose to keep a positive attitude and thankful heart regardless of your situation.
Now, back to the story. She gave birth after nine months and this is where their story becomes wonderful. She gave birth to a perfectly healthy baby! Let me repeat that just in case you missed it. She gave birth to a normal, healthy baby with no Down syndrome! Truly, God rewards those who put their trust in Him.
1 Thessalonians 5:16 Rejoice always. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus
- alvinfabella@yahoo.com
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