Martin Salia, a 44-year-old surgeon, of Sierra Leone descent, who dedicated his life to the health care of suffering Ebola patients in the capital city of Freetown, died of the same disease this week.
I don’t find it noteworthy that a medical worker cared for patients with a potential death sentence, because there are many conscientious professionals who selflessly give of themselves in such a manner. I am impressed that this doctor bypassed a lucrative medical career because of his religious convictions and call from God to serve at the United Methodist hospital.
His choice to follow God’s call cost him his life; and his decision reminds me of the words of Jesus: “Whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake, he will save it” (Luke 9:24, RSV). Dr. Salia sacrificed his life in fulfilling God’s will for him.
Am I willing to do the same?