# Childlike faith and the sanctity of life
*2018-07-18*

> Bill Young reflects on the spiritual importance of childlike humility through the writings of Saint Faustina and discusses the moral imperative to protect the unborn.

## The Virtue of Childlike Humility

Today's meditation focuses on childlike faith, drawing from the writings of Saint Faustina. She describes a profound experience where God did not reveal Himself to her as a teacher in the fullness of human adulthood, but as a little child. Despite this appearance, she recognized Him as the immortal, infinite Lord of Lords.

When Saint Faustina asked Jesus why He chose to communicate with her in the form of a child, He replied that He would continue to do so until she learned the meaning of humility. This serves as a powerful reminder that to approach God, we must set aside our pride and embrace the simplicity and openness of a child.

## The Tragedy of Abortion

The concept of the 'childlike' naturally leads to a reflection on the unborn. I have known friends who underwent abortions and spent the rest of their lives in deep regret. While some argue that abortion is a 'choice,' we must ask: when do we ever have the choice to kill another human being? 

Often, the pressure to abort does not even come from the woman herself, but from partners or family members for economic reasons or personal convenience. This is not a liberation of women's rights, but often a situation where a woman is pressured into a decision that leaves her feeling broken and guilt-ridden. As Catholics, we believe in a God of mercy. Through the Sacrament of Confession, those who have had abortions can find forgiveness and healing, though the loss of the child remains a lifelong sorrow.

## The Scientific and Moral Reality of Life

Modern technology—DNA testing, sonograms, and the detection of a heartbeat—confirms what the Church has always taught: life begins at conception. I remember before my son was born, I would read nursery rhymes to him while he was still in the womb. When he was born, the doctor noticed he stopped crying the moment he heard my voice because he recognized it. He was already a human being with a connection to his father.

It is a contradiction in our legal system that if a pregnant woman is murdered, the perpetrator can be charged with two murders. If the law recognizes the unborn as a human life in that category, it must be recognized as such in all categories. We should strive for a society where the sanctity of life is protected at the federal level.

## Hope and Conversion: Saint Camillus de Lellis

Today is also the feast day of Saint Camillus de Lellis. His life is a testament to the fact that no matter where we are today, we can become someone better tomorrow. Saint Camillus did not start as a saint; he struggled greatly and lost everything to gambling. However, after a period of illness and care in a hospital, he converted, became a priest, and dedicated his life to serving the sick. His journey shows us that redemption is always possible through faith.

*We are called to embrace a childlike humility before God and to stand courageously in defense of the most vulnerable, the unborn.*