In a culture where pre-born children who even have a possibility of Down syndrome are increasingly being aborted, Gerber, a company branded with adorable, perfect babies, deliberately chose this adorable, perfect baby.

As John Stonestreet from Breakpoint says, though, we need to remember that,

“[C]hildren with Down syndrome aren’t valuable because they’re cute or even because they often bring so much love and happiness to their families, although both of those things are true.

Lucas, like every human being, is valuable whether he’s cute or not; both when he brings happiness and when he doesn’t. His value is intrinsic, not a utilitarian calculation that weighs the costs with the benefits. Such a belief used to be commonplace in our culture.”

Maybe Gerber’s choice can be one small step to reminding Western culture that the intrinsic value of life is not a concept that should be laid aside.

Softer than softest eiderdown

A babe’s breath on her cheek.

No stronger force exists on earth…

Formed helpless and so weak,

Stronger than steel entwined, a heart

That reaches for and cares,

A tiny babe, so vulnerable

And yet in all things shares,

A drive that reaches out for life

God’s marvel! Who beholds,

That this small human being is

More than sheer love enfolds?

Softer yet stronger! Can it be

God Himself so revealed?

In Him alone who grants new life,

In whom our purpose’s sealed.

Heaven forbid that we should rule,

And wrong decisions make,

For, Life’s not to be trifled with,

Love, then, for Jesus sake.

               A. Blokhuis

               Nov. 12/13

My life rests with you dear mother!

It’s the secret we both share,

Yet it’s true, there is One other,

One who’ll teach you how to care.

Mom, I know you feel rejected,

That you hurt and are afraid,

Yet inside I feel protected,

We’re both in God’s image made.

You may wish things to be different…

T’was His will that I should be,

I know mom, you’re not indifferent

Deep inside, know, “You love me.”

[Turn to Him in joy or sorrow

He’ll assuage heartache and pain,

Each day brings His new tomorrow

Making lives worthwhile again.]

Life is filled with much frustration.

Now it’s hard to sing a song,

But your love will bring elation,

And God’s love will keep you strong.

Life is dear and oh so precious,

Love me mom and you will see

That our joys will be infectious

Shared with all, especially me.

We’ll love life and laugh together,

Pain and anguish? Maybe some,

But I promise, nothing’s better.

Me? To learn, “I love you mom!”

A.Blokhuis                                                                                                                                         Oct. 14/13