Brittany Maynard posted her worldview in the article, “Terminally Ill 29-Year Old Woman: Why I’m choosing to Die on My Own Terms.”
Maggie Karner, Director of LCMS Life Ministries, shared her worldview in an article entitled, “Brain Cancer Will Likely Kill Me. But There’s No Way I’ll Kill Myself.”
The first view reflects our culture’s obsession with death as our friend and a solution to the pain and suffering of life. The latter view reflects the Christian’s trust that death is our enemy that has been defeated through the cross and empty tomb of Jesus, and that God is at work in our pain and suffering giving it and us meaning and purpose.
The Apostle Paul also provides a helpful contrast in Philippians 1:23-24. In prison and not sure whether he will live or die, he writes, “I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account.” Paul contrasts the “far better” of being with Christ and the “more necessary” of continuing to live. We all understand the “far better” part. We do not always see the “more necessary part.”
But God does!
As long as He gives life, He gives life meaning.
As long as He gives life, He works in that life according to His gracious will.
Brittany Maynard wants to die on “my own terms.”
Maggie Karner wants to live on God’s terms until she dies.
Thank you, Maggie, for helping us see Jesus in your life and in your suffering.