Many
consider the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates as the father of Western
medicine. He understood the importance of following moral principles in the
practice of medicine, and is credited with writing the Hippocratic Oath, which
still serves as an ethical guide for today’s medical doctors. One key concept
of the oath is “to do no harm.” It implies that a physician will do only what
he thinks will benefit his patients.
The
principle of doing no harm extends to our relationships with others in everyday
life. In fact, benevolence is central to New Testament teaching about loving
others. In reflecting on the law of God, Paul sees that love is the intent
behind many biblical commands: “Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love
is the fulfillment of the law” (Rom. 13:10).
Each day as we follow Jesus Christ our Savior, we are faced with choices that will affect the lives of others. When we choose a course of action, we should ask ourselves, “Does this reflect Christ’s concern for others, or am I only concerned for myself?” Such a sensitivity demonstrates the love of Christ that seeks to heal the broken and help those in need.
