Because I am always reading most newspapers about a week late, I saw an article about the concerns of doctors in light of the June decision overturning Roe v. Wade. The most interesting thing –and the most deeply troubling – was how doctors who are not even OB/GYNs saw anti-abortion laws as impacting women’s health in areas I never even considered.
The NY Times story centered on an oncologist. Now, you may ask, why would the Court’s dreadful decision impact an oncologist? Because a doctor could be held criminally liable if a form of chemotherapy caused her to miscarry; the doctor could be arrested and tried for aborting a fetus in the attempt to keep her patient alive.
And radiation? Forget that! And what about a cardiologist who needs to prescribe a certain medication that might impact the fetus. It seems like the ripple effect is to kill the pregnant woman. Of course, the fetus will die as well. Is this insanity, or what?
Prayer for the Day
Life-affirming God, we know we often have to make hard decisions,
And we pray for your guidance when those times arise;
Wisdom-giving God, we struggle with choices not just for ourselves,
But for many others who are caught in the trap of intolerance.
Be with us, O God, as we strive to protect those who care for us,
And let not the flames of religious bigotry destroy them.
In the name of the One who healed the Samaritan,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Genetic technology might have to be rechristened "genetic art," for every work of art was an act of creation, and no act of creation was finer or more beautiful than the creation of an intelligent mind.
- Dean Koontz, American author, from Watchers
No, I'm the human here. I'm the life at stake. I'm the one with fingernails, who feels pain. Me.
- Alcien Grey, feminist author
Rise up, O Lord, confront them, overthrow them! By your sword, deliver my life
From the wicked, from mortals – by your hand, O Lord –
From mortals whose portion in life is in this world
Psalm 17: 13-14