Understanding Terminal Illness in Children

Introduction

Welcome to CAT, where today's topic revolves around an immense yet sensitive subject: why do we have children with terminal cancer or terminal diseases? A few seconds ago, I nearly got fired, but here I am, diving into this deep conversation. Let's explore the connection between terminal diseases and our world through a spiritual lens.

The Fallen World and Free Will

In our conversation, we consider the notion of a fallen world, which inevitably includes deathSeparation from God—now overcome. Physical death remains, but it no longer separates us from life with God. and disease. Did God foresee this fallen world? Yes, with foreknowledge, God created a world knowing it would be fallen, seeing the choices people and, sadly, children would make and the suffering they might endure.

We were discussing this earlier with someone else, and although I missed that exchange, the core idea remains: despite knowing the outcome, freedom of choice was granted. Adam and Eve were given options, even though God knew the choices they might make. This freedom and foreknowledge are part of why illnesses like cancer exist in our world today.

Nature, Choice, and Consequences

Let's dig deeper. Consider a scenario where a child's cancer isn't driven by 'wrong' choices but rather by circumstances, such as environmental pollution. The pollutants may enter water systems, impacting mothers and unborn children. Here, it isn’t about evil intentions but rather the unintended consequences of human choices.

Death, as a consequence of sinMissing the mark of faith and love—no punishment, just lost growth or peace., is intimately linked to our existence. Why would a world be created where such suffering exists? The answer seems to lie in the free choice allowed to humanity. For instance, accidents happen, like a child running into the street. Such incidents aren't about sin or choice but are part of life’s unpredictability.

The Balance of Good and Bad

A recurring question is why not create a world where only good exists. If everything were good, there would be no challenge or impetus to seek or choose God. Bad experiences, trials, and tribulations drive the need for faith and the search for divine love.

Some atheists argue that suggesting God’s love is demonstrated through children's suffering, such as cancer, is problematic. This isn't about love causing pain but rather about the possibility of love emerging through adversity.

The Role of Human Choice

In my view, while some desire good in this world, many seek a convenient, trouble-free existence without facing the reality of cosmic rebellion against God through sin. People often choose actions contrary to good, inevitably affecting the overall state of the world.

On a personal level, an individual's nature tends towards choices that aren't always pure or good, showcasing a rebellion against divine goodness. Thus, these personal choices contribute to the broader scope of why suffering exists, including in children facing terminal diseases.

Conclusion

In conclusion, discussing the immense suffering of a child with cancer requires understanding the interplay of free will, natural law, and the consequences stemming from humanity's choices. The fallen state of man and the inherent challenges of nature are part of this discussion, shedding light on the profound questions of life and existence.

Human Consequence and the Divine Plan

As fallen humans, we face the consequences of our actions. These outcomes arise when God, in His omnipotent wisdom, allows events to unfold according to our choices. Arguing, for example, is a result of human actions, not a direct consequence of God's doing.

The Balance of Good and Bad

One might question why God doesn’t create a world where only good exists and nothing bad ever happens. It’s important to consider that if everything were beautiful, it would cease to be right or meaningful. The presence of sorrow, pain, and difficulty, in some ways, shapes us for the better. Although it may be challenging to grasp in moments of hardship, reflecting on past difficulties often reveals that, in the long run, they have a purpose.

Intellectual Consistency and Personal Experiences

When faced with the tragic reality of a child suffering from cancer, it's difficult to maintain intellectual consistency. However, it's essential. We often can't see the bigger picture in the moment, but looking back, many people express gratitude for the changes those hardships have brought about.

Stories of Atheism and God's Role

It's not uncommon to hear stories of atheism stemming from personal loss. Some individuals turn away from belief in God after a family member dies, questioning why a loving God would allow such suffering. For some, this fuels a hatred of God rather than disbelief.

I recall a man in Florida whom I met when I first delved into apologetics. From a young age, he harbored resentment towards God after his little brother died of a lung disease at six months old. His words were filled with anger: "If there is a God, I would kill him."

Understanding Suffering and God's Perspective

It's essential to consider that if God knew these events would unfold, He also understands the suffering involved and will justly reward those who endure it, especially innocent children. God deeply understands human pain through the sacrifice of His son, who died for us. This shared experience of suffering illustrates that God can guide us through our darkest moments.

Divine Grief and Human Empathy

A curious perspective arises when considering the suffering of Christ. God, well aware of the fate awaiting His son, still experienced the grief inherent in such a sacrifice. Similarly, a parent aware of a terminal diagnosis for their child would still grieve over the impending loss. God's decision to allow Jesus's death was essential for human salvation, yet it caused great sorrow in heaven.

Atheism and Loss

Responding with atheism to a family member's death may seem self-defeating. It aligns one with a miserable viewpoint, believing that after death, there's nothing beyond being "worm food." There’s a paradox in seeking solace from suffering through disbelief, as it offers no enduring hope or comfort.

The Nature of Suffering and Death

When confronted with death and suffering, it's tempting to view them through the lens of natural selection, where the weak perish and the strong survive, allowing their genes to be passed down. Some might argue this is our entire purpose—to allow suffering for the promotion of our species. But why should we mourn over it? Within atheism, it's suggested we ought not to feel sorrow because we are merely a "clump of cells," no different from the inanimate objects around us. We're just biological entities in motion, and mourning is considered unnecessary. However, I fully support those who experience grief, even if they identify as atheists, as it's a natural human reaction.

God’s Eternal Perspective

From a religious perspective, our view of life is limited to the years we live on Earth, while God’s eternal perspective differs vastly. Considering eternity, the death of a child might not hold the same sorrowful meaning. When a loved one dies, some might expect us to focus on the afterlife and the hope it brings, rather than the loss.

Would it be appropriate, then, to tell someone grieving that their loss is God's will? Personally, I would advise against it, as it may not bring solace. Rather, it's vital to recognize their pain and offer comfort by emphasizing that God is present in their sorrow. We should convey understanding and reassure them of God’s compassionate treatment in the afterlife. Remember, even Jesus wept at Lazarus' tomb, knowing he would soon resurrect him. Grieving is a profoundly human process.

Exploring New Topics

Our discussion on suffering concluded, we turn to lighter matters. It's my turn to select the next topic, humorously dubbed the "womb of knowledge." The question arises: "Can a Christian be wealthy?" This intriguing topic will be explored further in our next session.