Her name is Adriana. It was surprising to see her, even though she’s been to many church functions since I’ve been here. But she seemed even quieter than usual. I came upon her holding the newest baby born to our church.

My heart ached for her as she began to cry softly, looking into his sweet baby’s slumber. “Entiendo,” I say, as I rest my head on her shoulder, and share the moment with her. “I understand” is all I can think to say. As I rub her back gently, I’m aware of the pain she must feel for the child she has just given up for adoption.

A Life of Heartbreak

At only fourteen years old, this child with no father and a mother reported to be a prostitute, has had her own child. Her pregnancy was the product of a random encounter with a “friend” at a party, who claims no responsibility. She has relied on the kindness of others throughout her pregnancy. She has been accused of stealing, is well known for not telling the truth, and has exhausted the resources and patience of all who would try to help her. But standing here, now, I see how vulnerable she is, re-entering a church without the baby that has brought her so much attention in the past.

“How brave,” I think. Could I face a group who has reluctantly washed their hands of me? If she really didn’t want to know Him—this Jesus she is always hearing about—then what brings her back? Is she like the bleeding woman, feeling unworthy of a direct audience with Him, but hoping for a touch of His garment to heal her pain? I am at once, pulled toward her, and repulsed by her. I want to offer hope and comfort, but conversation is difficult with her. Then I think,” what can I really do, Lord?” It’s her choice.

On the Cliff of "Change"

Choosing to walk into the unknown is scary. It takes a great courage to let go. Pain, when it’s the only thing a person has known, can be a comfort. It is at least something to feel. And so, taking a leap of faith becomes just that. A leap into the unknown—with a desperate hope to be caught, but a lingering fear of falling into something worse.

Adriana is standing on the edge of the great cliff of “change.” And I want to call out to her “Jump! You can do it!” The more she knows who God is and that He will catch her, the sooner she will jump.

Go

Find out more