Musings

Value of Life

by | Apr 18, 2016 | 2016, Musings | 2 comments

Canada has recently proposed an assisted suicide bill that would let terminally ill patients take their own lives.  Beyond the obvious theological issues, I was taken back by the clarification that the bill would oppose “suicide tourism.” That is, the bill restricts this “allowance” only to Canadian citizens, US citizens would not be allowed to travel north and partake of this service.

Has the value of life shifted so low that “suicide tourism” might be an issue? Guess so…

For centuries, mankind has grappled with the worth and value of life. One study conducted by a Dr. Duncan MacDougall of Haverhill, Massachusetts (1907-1911) tried to prove the existence of a soul by physically weighing a body before and after death. The variance in weight was offered as proof that a soul existed.

The value of life is discussed and debated in all corners of society. Aristotle remarked, “The ultimate value of life depends upon awareness and the power of contemplation rather than upon mere survival.”

There are a myriad of other comments, for example, ”…when I found family and friends I learned the value of life.”  Another reflected, “The value of life lies not in the length of days, but in the use we make of them.” And still another remarked, “A man who dares to waste one hour of time has not discovered the value of life.”

lifeAll of those perspectives have merit, but this week, as believers in Jesus Christ, lets all be reminded that life has amazing value and worth because it comes from a loving heavenly Father.  Even in the worst of circumstances, our lives are to be cherished as a gift from God.

To sum up that perspective, Paul wrote to the church in Corinth these powerful words: “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.”

“Absent from the body…present with the Lord,” now there is a statement of life’s value and worth.

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