Hospitals, Hope, and Healing
August 24, 2008
“God is dead.” This expression, made popular in the 1960’s, seems to be losing force today. In fact, an increasing number of persons not only believe that God is alive, they also believe that he is active. This is particularly true in matters of physical illness. A recent survey revealed the widespread belief held by many Americans that divine intervention can revive dying patients. More than half of randomly surveyed adults - 57 percent - said God’s intervention could save a family member even if physicians indicated that treatment would be futile. Moreover, nearly 75 percent of those surveyed said patients had a right to demand such treatment. Now, how do we respond to this, West Broad and friends? First, it is certainly refreshing to see that faith is still alive in America; our nation is not as “godless” as some Christians tend to believe. Secondly, Scripture indicates quite clearly that nothing is impossible with God (Gen. 18:14; Jer. 32:27; Luke 1:37). Sickness (or any other negative condition) certainly does not limit God’s ability to be “God.” But that leads to our third point - which is actually a question. That is, will God do what we want when we want in the way we want? In some instances, he will (Psalm 37:4-5). In other instances, he will not (2 Cor. 12:7-9). Perhaps the fact of greatest importance is not that God will, but rather that God can. In other words, the possibility of the Father’s power being demonstrated in my life deepens my faith and enhances my relationship with him. As such, we can see why the respondents referenced above believe as they do. Let us all trust God to be “God,” knowing that we will never be disappointed in him (1 Pet. 2:6). Think about it! -JLNJR (Resource: Richmond Times-Dispatch, 8/19/08, p. A4)
