UN/Broken - Day 27

Years before I was born, my mother’s oldest brother found a secluded location and ended his life. So, I grew up under the shadow of this event. In my mind’s eye, I can still see the picture of this uncle on my mother’s dresser.

Many have proclaimed that anyone who has committed suicide has committed the sin of murder with no opportunity to repent, and therefore, they would be lost for all eternity. But is it really that simple? Or is there room for a more nuanced approach?

For example, in a court of law, we exempt a murderer from the total penalty of the law if the person is found to be criminally insane. So, human courts consider the mental and emotional state of the accused. Would not God be as compassionate as a human court?

In his book After, Dr. Bruce Greyson tells the story of a college student named Peter who jumped from the roof of his dorm to end his life. A voice inside his head had been screaming at him that he belonged to Satan and deserved to be in hell; therefore, he must jump. This student told Dr. Greyson that as he fell, time stopped, God began to speak to him, and God said, “Peter, you are one of my children. You do not belong to Satan. You are loved more than you will ever know. I will not let your life end like this.” Sure enough, Peter broke both his legs, but he was otherwise unharmed. Could it be that God understands what we are going through and responds not with criticism and shame but compassion and love? This was how Jesus answered tax collectors and prostitutes. Why would his response to someone who has ended their life be any different?

We see God enacting this kinder, gentler approach toward Elijah in his darkest hour. Elijah has just experienced the rush of the mighty revelation of God's might on Mt. Carmel, but now he’s been running into the desert—running from a woman who has threatened his life. He begs God to let him die. But rather than lecturing him on his negative attitude or chiding him for his lack of faith, God sends an angel to bring him much-needed sustenance. God meets Elijah at his lowest point with caring and compassion, not judgment or criticism. Is there any reason to doubt that God will respond to us in our darkest hour similarly?

Journal:

1. What’s your view on the potential salvation of someone who has chosen to end their life? What is the basis for your thinking on this?
2. Elijah fearlessly stands alone against the 450 prophets of Baal. What do you surmise must have happened for him to cower in fear at the threat of a woman?
3. Elijah ran away in fear. Have you ever done anything similar?