- John 15:13 (NIV)

There's a high school girl at my church who has really impressed me. She's not the usual sort of impressive teenager—one with good grades or leadership skills. Instead, Kaylee has impacted me with her determination. Normally when we see young pregnant girls we stereotype them, assuming we know what kind of girls they are. Kaylee has changed all that for me. Yes, she made a mistake, but she is making a big-girl choice now She has determined to place her baby with a Christian couple who want to adopt.

Every Sunday Kaylee sits in church, and every week I've noticed the baby inside of her is growing. I can't imagine what it must be like for her, knowing her peers are enjoying their last months at home before heading off to college. Kaylee's plans have changed. She has put college on hold and will live at home and work while she completes her pregnancy and prepares to sign adoption papers. After that, she will release her son or daughter into the care of the couple she has chosen.

If statistics are correct, Kaylee has made an unusual choice given her situation. I've tried to encourage her in simple ways: sitting by her at church, calling to check on her, and reminding her that she's doing the right thing even though it's difficult.
 
I used to make assumptions when I saw pregnant teenage girls. Not anymore. Now I think of Kaylee, who has made a very difficult choice. Her decision to give life has come at a cost. She has set aside her wants and wishes for a time so her child can have a proper start to his or her life. I think Jesus is happy about this.

The LORD upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. Psalm 145:14 (NIV)

Think About It...