Disease and Sin

Some say ignorance is bliss. And in some cases, this is true. Yet, things such as the Ebola outbreak in Africa are deserving of careful attention and the attention of our prayers. 

Those suffering from Ebola within West Africa, it has been reported here, could reach to a high 1.4 million by January. What is more, there have been roughly 2,800 deaths attributable to this virus. (Click on these links for more information)

Certainly, the number of cases, deaths, and projected cases are cause for great and heavy concern for those living in those areas. And it must also be a worldwide concern, as we look at the reality of this ever growing illness.

Yet, living in the United States as a young person so easily consumed with college and other responsibilities and planning, I can forget this dreadful reality that is taking place even as I type. Giving it no thought would be of no benefit for this heartbreaking situation. Further, one could say that this malignant quality of the illness requires that it be a priority on our hearts so that we may be driven to prayer and to action as necessary. 

And just as this illness has devastating influences, so too does our sin (James 1:15). And as Jerry Bridges states, if “left unchecked, it can spread throughout our entire inner being and contaminate every area of our lives. Even worse, it often will ‘metastasize’ from us into the lives of other believers around us” (23). The illness of our sin is real, and giving it no thought would have devastating consequences for our lives and for those around us. And in light of this, it calls for action, “repentance and contrition” (Bridges 30). 

Just as the Ebola outbreak must be our concern and one in which a blind eye would do nothing but effect damaging results, so too must be the attention we give to our sin. 

Lord, humble us and break our hearts for the things in this world and in us that breaks your heart.