There is a Korean proverb that I learned as a child. Roughly translated, it says, “A tiger leaves its skin behind while a man leaves his name behind.” A tiger skin was very expensive and rare (and it still is) and served as a nice coat for winter. Thus, a tiger’s skin was considered its contribution to society. This saying was often quoted to challenge young people to live as a beneficial member of society, leaving a good reputation and legacy behind through achievements and successes.
Gone are the days, however, when a man could only leave his name behind! A few weeks ago, around the time of the 2nd anniversary of my brother James’ passing from a heart attack, our family received a letter from the Washington Regional Transplant Community. At the time of his death, we did not have to agonize over what to do with his body because James had already registered himself as an Organ Donor (as indicated by ’ Organ Donor’ on his driver’s license). Knowing what a caring person James was, we would have all agreed that he would gladly donate as much usable organs and tissue as possible anyway; nonetheless, we were thankful that we didn’t have to make the decision on his behalf and that we were able to honor his wish.
The letter from WRTC stated that James’ donation consisted of orthopedic tissues that were used for patients suffering from bone or spine disease/injuries and heart valves that benefited individuals with severe heart defects or heart disease. His gift of skin has enabled surgeons to perform reconstructive surgeries for severe burn victims. His donations have been distributed to 15 states including Maryland and Virginia. Though my beloved brother is no longer with us on this earth, it is somewhat comforting to know that parts of him are still ‘living.’ It is indeed bittersweet!
James lived a rather ordinary life. He’d been sick with diabetes for much of his adult life and did not achieve much success or fame by the standards of this world. He did not have much to leave behind for his family and friends. James’ gift of life, however, meant the world to the recipients of his organs and tissue. James certainly left more than his name behind. He literally left his skin and more so others could have another chance at life.
We as followers of Jesus Christ have already received the gift of eternal life and have been commissioned to live as salt and light of the world. One day God will call us home to live with Him in heaven forever with glorious new heavenly bodies. Thus in my opinion, we Christians should be the first ones to become organ donors for thousands of people whose only hope for life is to receive an organ or tissue transplant. How awesome it is to be able to practice “Love your neighbor as yourself” even at death! I understand this kind of matter is a personal decision and needs to be discussed with one’s family. I do encourage all of you, however, to talk about this important topic of organ donation with your loved ones. And as you share about life, death, and beyond, I pray you will each be overcome with incredible gratitude for the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ. He showed by example what it means to give the gift of life to others. Let us imitate Jesus Christ. Would you consider becoming an Organ Donor next time you apply for a driver’s license or a leaner’s permit?
From Pastor Sara’s Heart
September 8, 2013