A Most Despicable Anniversary
Today, March 31st, marks the 1 year anniversary of the death of Terry Schiavo. I actually hate to call it an anniversary because the term is usually used to denote something that is joyful. This was not a joyful day. This day was a tragedy, one that we have repeated many times since. One only has to look at little Haleight Poutre the 11 year-old in Massachusetts who was almost left to die by the "caretakers" of the state. She is alive now because of nothing less than a miracle. We cannot say the same for Terry.
Why is it that we do not value life? What is it that causes us to relegate the elderly, even ones that can take care of themselves, into care homes with such ease? What is it that is causing families to more and more consider euthanasia as an alternative instead of caring for these precious individuals? Teh answer is quite simple. As I see it, we are a nation of materialism and we look at life as what economic value it has. If you cannot longer be a productive citizen adding to the economic value of our world you are not worth the time.
I have had the experience over the last few months of having my father in law, who is unable to care for even his own basic needs, moved into an assisted living home near my house. I am appalled at the attitude that so many people have toward the elderly. Even people who are working at the home have viewed him with contempt. My father in law is viewed as having nothing more to add to society and therefore not of value. This could not be further from the truth.
The experience of caring for a person reminds us that "the least of these" are where we see the face of God our father. "And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the lease of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." (Mt 25:40 av)The more we spend time with the elderly or disable, the more we invest in the lives of others, regardless of the cost associated with it, the more we see the face of God.
As Christians our greatest witness in today's society is going to be the way we treat others. Someone once said that you can tell a lot about a man in the way that he treats those who can do nothing for him. I like this quote because it is so true.
I challenge anyone reading this to take up your cross and follow the Christ we all know, the Chris who can to seek and save that which was lost and to serve the least of these. Quit looking at every relationship you have in the light of "what can you do for me?" but rather "what can I do for you?"
Today, Christian bloggers all over the world are writing in remembrance of Terry Schiavo. Let's all take a moment and remember Terry and her family. Let's also take the time to write our senators and remind them that live is still valuable, and life is worth protection.