I believe that life is sacred—that human beings are created in the image of our Creator, and that He doesn’t make mistakes. I also believe that God has wired us to nourish and protect that life. Sin has short-circuited that wiring leading men to do horrendous things to other human beings.

Under the banner of ‘right to choose’ abortion has brought upon this land a dark curse over the last several decades. Millions of unborn children have perished on our watch. Contrary to what we are led to believe, very few abortions performed in this country have anything to do with the mother’s health or a threat upon her life. Nearly all abortions are choices of convenience. So, how ought we to respond to what is going on in our world?

Sadly, on both sides of the issue, vicious name-calling is an all too frequent reaction. Hate and violence are never appropriate responses to any issue. Yes, we should be angry when a helpless child’s life is snuffed out because of mother or father’s convenience. It is wrong. But so is hate and malicious behavior.

On the other hand, we need to find ways to engage in calm, compassionate dialogue about the issues graciously, but honestly. Fear and intimidation must not be allowed to silence the truth, but neither should ignorance. Christians, above all, ought to be conduits of grace and mercy in the lives of those who have made poor choices. What might have happened if someone had been able to help them understand their alternatives more clearly? And what about the victims of attempted, but failed abortions? How do we help them heal and move on to make the most of the life God has given them?

Fortunately, someone is attempting to answer these questions and open up the opportunity for compassionate, sensitive dialogue on the subject. They are doing it on the big screen. I don’t often recommend films because there are so few worthwhile ones. Some films have good story but poor filmmaking. Occasionally a truly good story is produced with exceptionally good filmmaking as well. October Baby produced by the Erwin brothers and Provident Films is such a movie. It is about abortion, but more significantly, it is about grace and forgiveness. This extraordinary story that will touch your heart and open your eyes to the beauty and preciousness of life. It is a must see.

October Baby opens in theaters nationwide on March23—that’s this week. Please go see it. Take somebody with you, like a teenage grandson and granddaughter. Perhaps you could invite someone who has been through an abortion and needs to find healing. This film does not judge those who have been through abortion. It is a simple, loving, sensitive, and well-made film about a subject that matters, and the hope and healing that is available to those who seek it.

For more information about the film and where it will be showing near you, go to this link: www.octoberbabymovie.net. Tell everyone you know about this film. Invite your friends to go with you. Then take some time afterward to sit down and process what you just saw. And by the way, I’d like to know your reaction to it as well.