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Assisted Dying Bill
 submitted by Dave Wesks
Pastor, Hope Church (retired)
Our government has taken the first steps toward legalizing assisted dying. This is undoubtedly a deeply emotive issue, one that will continue to provoke debate—not only in Parliament but also in homes, pubs, clubs, and perhaps even in our churches
Much of the discussion so far has focused on the end-of-life argument: the physical, emotional, and ethical considerations surrounding the act of dying. However, there seems to be little voice given to what happens after death. While concerns centre on the ending of this life, few address the reality of entering the next
The Bible states, “It is appointed unto man once to die, but after this comes judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). Jesus Himself taught that only those who put their trust in Him will enter Heaven (John 14:6). He spoke at length about the reality of hell and how to avoid it, urging people to take these eternal matters seriously (Mark 9:43-48)
From what I have observed in the public discourse surrounding this Bill, the majority seem to believe that death will simply bring relief. Yet, this perspective overlooks the eternal consequences of one’s decisions in this life. The suffering of this life is real, but the suffering of eternity apart from God is far worse
Criticism of palliative care in this country has been widespread during this debate, with many finding it to be inadequate. This prompts an important question for us as Christians: have we, too, been inadequate in our witness to the lost? Have we, have I, shown the same urgency and compassion needed to point others to the hope of eternity with Christ as others have been about championing this Bill? For surely it is the greater need
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