Causes of death in Western Europe

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/5191386.stm

Suicides and road accidents are tragedies. However, these statistics also reflect the good physical health of the population. Few die of infectious disease.

The statistics also show the desperate need amongst western europeans for the hope of the gospel. As the gospel triumphs, then one can expect fewer road accidents and dramatically fewer suicides, of course.

Comments

Anonymous said…
'Desperate need' certainly, though to my shame I'm probably not truly percieving the need to be that desperate.

Please may I ask you to explain your comment that as the Gospel triumphs there will be fewer road accidents.

I think I agree with you if the causes for these accidents amongst young people are speed and excessive drink, which they probably are. It would be interesting to view research to see if young people who are Christians have fewer accidents, possibly because they don't have the need to prove themselves through the bravado of excessive speed / drink.

Certainly the Gospel gives hope to the hopeless and should mean fewer suicides. Sadly I remember many years ago, a young man who had desperate problems being counselled by many in our church but tragically took his life. It was a severe blow to us all.

On a much more positive note though, I personally find a very deep satisfaction and thorough security in knowing that my salvation is dependant upon Christ. I love my Saviour very much but His love for me is far more amazing. I am His and He is mine, still, after 33 years.
12:03 pm
Alan said…
Exactly. I was thinking of drink, speed and general recklessness.

Many Christians suffer from poor mental health. I always think of William Cowper as their "patron saint". He intended to take his own life but was saved by God's providence and supported by the sacrifical care of his friends. And God stood by him, of course, in good times and in bad.

But in addition to these especially tragic cases, Europe's young need hope, a reason to live, something to live for and to die for. Only the gospel gives that. In fact it is better to say someONE to live for and to die for.
12:12 pm
MartinY said…
Um, I can think of a few Pastors whose driving could be likened to Jehu's. There's still a fair bit of bad driving in those who have their hope resting on the Saviour. (please don't examine mine too closely < g >)
11:24 pm
Alan said…
true, true...
4:44 pm
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