with Nikki Finch

As Christians, we should be extremely concerned by the issue of abortion and for those involved especially since the sanctity of human life is great and deeply valued by God. Just this week, a federal judge in San Francisco ruled that the partial birth abortion ban was unconstitutional because it breaches a woman's fundamental right to choose. This sounds like a keen argument at first, but really, it all depends on what the choice is about. For instance, it would be bizarre to say that husbands could have the right to choose whether or not to beat their wives, or that parents could have the right to choose whether or not to abuse their children. The point of fact is that our "right to choose" is limited by the basic rights of others. If we continue to perpetuate abortion as a nation, then we are essentially denying the most fundamental right to an entire group of people: the right to live for the unborn.

Some argue that the unborn don't have rights. I am sadly reminded of the Holocaust, in which Germans were fully convinced that Jewish people did not have any rights - a belief which resulted in attempted genocide. If it is up to a select group of people to determine who should have rights, then where is the line drawn? We must remain active as Christians in defending the sanctity of life at all costs.

However, as Christians we must respond with both grace and truth. It breaks my heart to witness others in their defense of the unborn come across with strong condemnation or make disparaging remarks. Abortion is a double tragedy - not only is the baby victimized, but the woman is victimized as well. Some women might have felt that there was no choice, and others might have acted out of desperation. Regardless, those who have experienced one will testify that it is an experience that is nothing short of traumatic. My prayer is that Christians would begin to be effective as salt and light, not by preaching at others or outlining their faults, but by emulating the very nature and character of our Lord in both grace and truth. After all, who can truly cast the first stone? We are all fallible creatures who have no claim in or of ourselves to moral or ethical perfection. Instead, we should extend to those involved in abortion the deepest and most genuine support, care, and love. As we wrap them up in compassionate reassurance, may we reflect the all-encompassing and abounding grace, mercy, hope, forgiveness, and love of the Father who knows our names, who understands our every need, and who hears us every time we call on Him.

Student Leadership University has played an integral role in my life, both spiritually and practically. When I attended 101 in the summer of 1998, I had recently graduated from high school. My college plans were set, but my goals extended no further than the years planned for my education. The first night in Orlando, Dr. Jay Strack challenged us to take notes, pay attention, and soak in all that we could during the next week of training. Having been to other conferences before, my foreseen highlights of the week included the visits to Universal Studios, Sea World, and other highlights in the city. Little did I know that I would come away from the week with a changed perspective on life and leadership. The SLU faculty of highly respected speakers encouraged the students to pursue excellence in time management, education, cultural issues, and vocation. To this day, I still reference my session notes on a regular basis.

My years of involvement with Student Leadership University have allowed me to dream, aspire, and accomplish goals that would not have been accessible otherwise. My week in Orlando, and subsequent summers of training, not only challenged me to be the Christian leader God intended me to be, but also changed my outlook on the impact I might have in a culture desperately in need of biblical leadership.

Student Leadership University took a rough block of leadership potential and gave me the tools to shape and fashion myself into the man God intended me to be.

Robbie is a Christian studies major at North Greenville College in South Carolina. In the past, Robbie has served as a senior intern for our 101 program, and he currently serves as a staff member for our SLU 201 program.

SLU 301 is currently progressing in London, and the reports so far have been great! Our first week of SLU 101 here in Orlando began Monday, setting an incredible pace of training for the rest of the summer. If you have students attending SLU 101, we will have a special section on our website devoted to keeping you updated daily on the happenings, events, and progress of the week here, complete with pictures!

It's not too late to register for our SLU 101 programs or for our Creative Outbreak programs this summer - there are still openings for each remaining week of June and July. Register now to secure your spot.

If you have any questions about any of our programs, please don't hesitate to call us. Our toll-free number is 1-888-260-2900. We would be glad to answer any of your questions or send you any of our program information. Let us know how we may serve you. We hope to see you this summer!

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