A prominent issue in our society today is that of euthanasia, sometimes known as physician-assisted suicide (PAC) or ‘mercy killing.’ Currently, only the states of Oregon and Washington permit physician-assisted suicide, but these precedents certainly raise the question of when it might be permissible to aid in the death of another. As Christians, we should be prepared to give a response to this issue both in our personal lives (as we deal with the aging, sickness, and death of those we love), and in the wider culture. Christians do grieve in response to death, but not like those who have no hope (1 Th. 4:13). What do Christians have to offer to their neighbors as they face the difficult and painful questions surrounding the end of life?
The 2004 film Million Dollar Baby (directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman) won four Academy Awards including Best Picture. The film seems to be about boxing, but takes a dramatic turn that brings the ethical issue into sharp focus. Pay attention to themes of fighting, winning, and losing, especially at the end of life. One of the most powerful aspects of this film is the way it personalizes an issue that can often seem distant.

• Watch the Million Dollar Baby (2004) movie. (Although there are “free” ways to watch this on the internet, these sites may compromise your computer.  For safety, you may find this movie at your local library.  Alternatively, the movie can be streamed for a small fee on YouTube, iTunes, Amazon, or Google Play.)

• Prepare to discuss the following points.
  • Ask yourself how you would respond if you were in the situation of the main characters.
  • What advice would you give them in trying to influence their decisions?
  • Support your advice based on what you have learned in this class.