I. The Importance of Planning
Why is end of life planning important? What benefits does it to provide to one who is dying and to the survivors? Discuss why end of life planning could be important to you at this present time.
II. Advance Directives and Worldview
What aspects of end of life care are impacted by your worldview? Does the Bible give any direction related to our attitude or actions at the end of life? Are there moral or ethical concerns that should be discussed? If you need help getting started, these verses may be helpful.
• Genesis 1:26-27
• Deuteronomy 32:39
• 1 Samuel 2:6
• Romans 13:10
• Ecclesiastes 3:1-3
• Romans 14:7-9
• John 11:25-26
• 2 Corinthians 5:1-9
III. Sample Plan
Using the questions below, create your own plan or a plan for a hypothetical person. Tell how you, or someone might respond to the five important questions related to end of life planning:
A. Assuming that you do not suffer a catastrophic accident, what do you want your last days to look like?
B. Who do you want to make decisions for you when you cannot make them for yourself?
C. What type of medical care do you want at the end of your life (life support such as a respirator, artificial feeding or hydration, etc.)?
D. How comfortable (pain-free) do you want to be?
E. What message do you want to leave for your loved ones?
IV. Final Thoughts
How has this assignment changed your thoughts related to end of life planning? Do you intend to formalize your plans by using one of the suggested resources?