by Rod D. Martin
March 31, 2005

The following statement was released Thursday night by Dr. D. James Kennedy’s Center for Reclaiming America. It perfectly summarizes my position and the position of many other believers. However wretched, however tragic Terri’s death, it is representative of countless virtually identical cases every year. We must make certain our laws are changed, our courts are reformed, and that Terri did not die in vain.

At 9:55 a.m., Terri Schindler Schiavo passed away–fourteen days after her court-ordered starvation and dehydration began.

This human tragedy touched millions of Americans, and with Terri’s passing, many are upset and angered by the failure of our government to defend Terri’s inalienable right to life.

+ + A Call to Pray for the Schindlers

Now is not the time to attack and point fingers of blame. Instead, we are calling all Christians to prayerfully rally around this amazing family.

For fifteen years their love and desire to protect Terri has never wavered. Throughout their desperate journey, the Schindlers remained dignified and strong–a true testament of family devotion, and an inspiration to us all.

They have poured their hearts and souls out to a nation, and now it is time for us to respond–just as splendidly–by offering our heartfelt prayers and condolences. You can send the Schindlers a personal note or prayer of condolence to this address:

The Terri Schindler-Schiavo Foundation
4615 Gulf Blvd – #104/103
St Petersburg Beach, FL 33706

Citizens across America are stunned by the raw judicial arrogance displayed in this case, and many feel the need to lash out at our elected leaders–including Governor Jeb Bush. Please remember that Governor Bush has spent the past few years championing the effort to save Terri’s life.

As late as Tuesday evening, the Governor was desperately working behind the scenes to find a way to save Terri. We believe Governor Bush acted heroically in his efforts to save her, and he should be applauded–not demonized.

+ + Terri’s Legacy

As Christians, we cannot run from these kinds of life and death battles. Instead we must take ownership–consistently proclaiming the love of God to all.

Remaining strong and joyful in the face of such human tragedy will ultimately change hearts for the Lord.

We are so grateful for your commitment and desire to stir change in America. Thank you for being such an important and blessed part of all that we do.

“O Death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15: 54b-58)

CENTER FOR RECLAIMING AMERICA

P.S. This is truly an opportunity for Christians to shine. So, if you would, please pass this message on to your family and friends–encouraging them to lift the Schindlers up in their prayers, as well.

+ + Dr. Kennedy will discuss this issue tonight on MSNBC’s “Scarborough Country” (10:00 p.m., EST). To find the channel airing this broadcast in your area, click here:

http://www.msnbc.com/modules/tvnews/cablelookup/content.asp