While many of us were distracted with summer plans, world and national events, and a barrage of unsettling news, something strikingly momentous occurred in Texas. The Texas Heartbeat Law went into effect September 1, 2021! An attempt by pro-abortion plaintiffs to appeal to the Supreme Court for an extraordinary emergency relief was denied, and the law was permitted to go into effect.
What is the Texas Heartbeat Law?
This law prohibits abortion once a heartbeat is detected (usually around 6 weeks gestation), but it does make exceptions for medical emergencies. [1] While we know that life begins at conception and continue to strive to save every life, this law is a historic step forward.
It does not overturn Roe v. Wade (Keep an eye on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, though.), but it is a crucial shift in the right direction and will save countless lives in Texas. This law will also have a ripple effect on other states who will seek to follow what Texas has begun.
It is also worthy to note that penalties are not brought against the mothers, but abortion providers and those aiding in “performance or inducement of an abortion” are subject to civil lawsuits and fines. Furthermore, this law prohibits a man who impregnates a woman through rape, incest, or sexual assault from taking civil action. [2]
While challenges to the Heartbeat Law will continue and take some time to resolve, the law is currently in effect, and we exclaim with the Psalmist, “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy!” [3]
We rejoice over every child that will be born, every dream that will be realized, every life these children will touch. We rejoice in a better world where Pre-Born babies are given the chance to fulfill their God-given purpose.
We rejoice because God never fails and because in Him there is always hope. When circumstances overwhelm us and darkness appears to overtake, He reaches down and brings His light. He lets us know He was always present and does not forsake us. He never abandons. Filled with His blessed assurance, we press on.
Conversions are still needed, starting with our own. We pray that hearts will continually be changed and eyes will be opened to the inestimable value of each human life. We will reach out to the countless women who will need support during and after their pregnancies, through crisis pregnancy centers, in our churches, and wherever we encounter a need. Our job is far from over, but what joy we have today!
[2] https://legiscan.com/TX/text/SB8/2021
[3] Psalm 126:3
