The desire to live an abundant life and to have a good death remains a very contemporary aspiration for all of us in the twenty-first century. This resource addresses that desire as well as the complexities around such pressing issues as martyrdom, abortion, suicide, and capital punishment.
The themes of life and death pulse throughout the Bible in the lives of individuals and communities. The Creator has empowered humankind to work out their lives and grapple with their deaths, setting before them precepts to follow and people to imitate, preeminently Jesus, risen from the dead. Although the biblical authors do not specifically address such matters as abortion, they do offer perspectives that are relevant to the discussion. Besides this, the Scriptures offer a rich treasury of texts and stories that not only inform but also inspire those who are longing for trustworthy guidance, greater wholeness, and deeper peace in life, as they approach that unknown moment of death that comes for each of us.
The series What Does the Bible Say About ...? examines Biblical teaching in non-technical language in a style accessible to all, while taking into account current scholarship, and relating the biblical message to challenges of today's church and society. Rather than commenting on the content of any specific book, this new series examines topics of interest in a cross-reading of the Bible, both Old and New Testament, presenting a wide-angle view of what Sacred Scripture really says.
Professor Emeritus, The Catholic University of America
"It is rare to find a book written by an accomplished biblical scholar whose experience as a chaplain illumines every page and makes this short work, written in language accessible to all, a welcome addition to this series. The questions Gillman addresses throughout this volume are universal human questions. His responses, which convey great pastoral sensitivity, are rooted in the distinct traditions of the Judeo-Christian scriptures and the teachings of the Catholic Church. But this book, which is punctuated by poignant stories of human suffering and redemption, is for anyone who needs help with lifeâ (TM)s challenges, insights about living a meaningful life, and hope and courage in the face of death."
Maria Pascuzzi, CSJ. Seton Hall University
"With poignant real-life vignettes, John Gillman weaves together the biblical story with the human story, addressing some of the most difficult questions we face about life and death. He deftly draws together the threads of Scripture, the teachings of the Church, and wisdom from the faithful to help readers reflect on our most profound realities and fearlessly embrace life to the full."
Barbara E. Reid, O.P.
"John Gillman addresses questions of life and death from a biblical perspective. Pastorally sensitive, and informed by great learning, this work sheds the light of scripture on some of the most vexing and disputed questions of our day. If you want to know how the Bible addresses these issues and how it can inform your decision making today, this is a good place to start."
Frank J. Matera
John Gillman received his Ph.D. in Religious Studies (New Testament) from the Catholic University of Louvain (KUL) in Belgium. He has published widely and lectured nationally and internationally. He is a lecturer at San Diego State University and more recently at the Franciscan School of Theology. For many years he has served as a Certified Pastoral Educator (CPE) and a chaplain at major medical centers, a national hospice provider, and an urban ministry program.
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