Do you think you could do it? Do you think that you could press a button to end your life? Most couldn’t.
Terror filled the air. Nobody was getting out of the skyscraper alive. The fire got closer and closer. The flames birthed two options…jump or burn.
“Hell awaits those who would dare defy the plan of God.” I heard it repeatedly. I guess they didn’t want us to kill ourselves…or perhaps misery loves company.
Pain has never been the will of God. How are we to fight back? How far would you go?
Earlier today, internationally renowned botanist and ecologist Dr. David Goodall died. This was no ordinary demise. Dr. Goodall had traveled from Australia to Switzerland, to end his life at a clinic dedicated to death. Dr. Goodall lived his life a fierce proponent of euthanasia. When the 104-year-old’s health declined past the quality of life that he desired, he chose the only other option he had…suicide. Dr. Goodall saw only two choices…jump or burn.
There is nowhere that God is not. Nothing can separate us from the love of God. Hell is out of the question. Love is not. Our job is not to judge those who seek escape from their suffering. Our job is to love people no matter what decisions they make.
In his final moments, Dr. Goodall listened to Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.” I know of few more beautiful songs. As he slipped the bonds of humanity, he was healed and made whole.
Whether you agree with Dr. Goodall’s choice or not, it was his choice to make.
One day…it might also be yours.
Jump or burn?
Amen.
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