Sanctity of Human Life Month — A Personal Reflection
January — A Time to Cherish Every Human Life
Every January, as the new year begins with fresh hope and renewed prayer, I’m reminded of something eternal — the precious gift of human life. For many of us, January isn’t just another month on the calendar. It’s Sanctity of Human Life Month — a time when we pause as believers to honor the God-given dignity of every person, from the tiniest heartbeat in the womb to the wisdom of our elders.
This month is rooted both in our nation’s history and in a deeply Christian conviction: every human life is sacred because it is created by God, in His image.
Why January Matters
National Sanctity of Human Life Day has traditionally been observed near the anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision on January 22nd — the ruling that for decades legalized abortion nationwide. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan first issued a proclamation recognizing this day, calling the nation to prayer, reflection, and renewed commitment to protecting innocent life.
Over time, many churches have observed Sanctity of Human Life Sunday on the third Sunday of January, which often falls around January 18th. While the exact date may vary, the message remains the same.
This year, I want to encourage us to think bigger — to treat the entire month of January as a season of reflection, prayer, and action. Life doesn’t begin and end on a single date. It begins with God, who lovingly knits each of us together in our mother’s womb and calls His people to protect and cherish life at every stage.
A Christian Call to Love and Protect Life
As a follower of Jesus, I can think of few callings more important than standing with the vulnerable. Scripture makes it clear that life is not accidental — it is intentional. We are fearfully and wonderfully made by a Creator whose heart beats with love for every human being. And there is not a more vulnerable group on Earth than unborn babies.
Sanctity of Human Life Month is a reminder that our pro-life convictions are not rooted in politics, but in the Gospel itself. Jesus consistently moved toward the vulnerable, the overlooked, and the defenseless — and unborn children are among the most defenseless of all.
This month, I invite you to join me in:
- 🙏🏼 Praying daily for mothers and fathers facing unplanned pregnancies
- 🔥 Encouraging life-affirming support within our families, churches, and communities
- ✝️ Standing with pregnancy care centers, foster families, and adoption ministries
- 🗣️ Speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves, especially unborn children
These aren’t political talking points — they are gospel-driven actions. When we defend life, we reflect the heart of Jesus, who came to give life — and give it abundantly. (John 10:10)
Hope in Action
Even as courts and culture continue to debate policy, the Church has a timeless role: to be a refuge for life. That means offering practical help and compassionate presence — from helping a young mother with groceries or diapers, to supporting families considering adoption, to surrounding parents with encouragement rather than judgment.
Sanctity of Human Life Month is not meant to be a one-day observance. It’s an opportunity to recommit ourselves to a lifestyle of love — one that values life not just in January, but every day of the year.
Life is not defined by how sheltered or comfortable it is. Life is defined by its Creator, honored by His people, and protected when His Church stands boldly for the most vulnerable.
YOUR CALL TO ACTION:
This January, let’s not just talk about life. Let’s cherish it. Let’s protect it. And let’s live it. Reach out to an organization and lend a hand this month. If you’re in Denver check out places like Hope House Colorado or MyChoice Pregnancy Center and find out what they need. Often times the most important thing you can donate is your time–just showing up for a pregnant mother, serving them dinner, helping them in their home, or just being an ear for them is all that they need right now.
Blessings,
TJ
