Judas and the Need to Make Disclosure Available to Physicians, Nurses

Last Sunday, Christians around the world celebrated the Easter Holiday.  Now, you don't have to be of the Christian faith to acknowledge that Jesus Christ was a historical figure, including his crucifixion. The debate, of course, centers on the meaning of Christ's life and death.

Over this past week, I wondered if Judas, who betrayed Christ for a bag of silver coins, was in Heaven. Judas is history's ultimate bad guy, and his name is synonymous with traitors and deceitful people, yet, could he be in the Lord's paradise just like the thief hung next to Christ?   According to Dr. AI and Mr. Google, Christian theologians and philosophers are split on this question.  However, I found an interesting perspective in an essay provided by The Bonhoffer Project (named after the late German theologian, spy, and martyr, Dr. Deitrich Bonhoffer).  In this essay, the authors argue that Judas was chosen as one of the 12 disciples (no small accomplishment) and he was incredibly remorseful after Jesus was turned over to the authorities, returning the ill-gotten bag of coins to the chief priests and begging for Jesus' freedom.  He repented and tried to make amends. The essay finishes by suggesting one day we may meet Judas at the Pearly Gates.  Judge for yourself.  

We all have some Judas in us. Like Judas, we are all people with special talents and gifts, but we are also imperfect and even subject to corruption. Our healthcare professionals provide healing and comfort to the sick and dying, yet they make mistakes, sometimes injuring and even killing people.  Do we give our healthcare professionals the ability to repent and make amends as Judas Iscariot tried to do so many years ago?   The tools are here, but have we trained healthcare professionals on disclosure and provided proper emotional support when the need is the greatest?  

As a Christian, I believe everyone can be redeemed, but the path to redemption begins with making amends.  That is what disclosure and apology is all about.  If Judas can make it to the Lord's paradise, so can any doctor or nurse who has committed medical harm, but it all starts with "sorry."  We are here to help.  

Sincerely,

- Doug

Doug Wojcieszak, MA, MS
Founder and President
Sorry Works
618-559-8168