Death, dying and Euthanasia

Death, dying and Euthanasia

“I know the plans I have for you…”

 Jeremiah 29:11

                The Canadian government is considering legislation around

what is known as physician assisted suicide. There are countries around the world where this action is legal and some families have flown to these countries in order that their loved one might choose to end suffering from terminal illnesses on their terms with assistance from physicians. The question before us and the government is whether this kind of legislation is necessary, desired and what its implications mean to Canadians.

                Conversations about have the right to choose how one leaves this world has been controversial since individuals started to choose to die under their own hands. Stigma against the act of suicide still lingers in many communities and cultures. This legislation pushes this request to die with dignity into the hands of doctors.

                But what are the key concerns surrounding this proposed legislation? There are several issues which arise. Competency and understanding of the action being requested even up to the time before death. The question around palliative care and physician assisted suicide advocates working together and whether this is possible. And of course the spiritual and faith based questions of whether this is ‘God’s will’ when one chooses to die or is this even a part of our faith talk at this time.

                The question is primarily would you want this option if you were capable of making the decision to die as you faced terminal illness.

                When young parents are expecting babies they often create a birth plan of what would be an ideal setting to bring a baby into the world. Maybe we are in need of reflection upon your death plan- what would be your ideal situation or worth. And significantly, what is God calling us to as we each prepare to die and should our dying be our choosing?

                REFLECTION:

What do you think- feel about this legislation before the government? The government is asking for feedback to this question. How would you respond?  What questions would you raise first or what is your thought about life and death and eternal life?

                These are difficult questions but if you have faith in God- He will help you to discern what is right for you and with you at this time and in the days ahead. It’s time to pray.

                PRAYER:

Holy God sometimes we wonder why people think that life and death is in their hands when we know that all things are in yours. You created and continue to create all things. You show us life and all its possibilities yet we look to the dark side and want what is easy and comfortable.  May your Spirit speak to us as we look for answers and to have hope restored once again.  Show us O God life and enable us to choose. We ask this in Jesus’ name for he lived, died and rose again so that he might lead us to a new understanding living for you. Amen.

If you would like more about the pending legislation regarding physician assisted dying please go to www.endoflifeconsultations.com where  the Final report which is pending before the government is located.

Let us pray and discern God’s will in these matters.