In 2014 an epidemic of the Ebola virus broke out in West Africa, killing over 28,000 people across Liberia, Sierra Leone, and other African countries. The first doctors to respond to this world-wide crisis were Christians, affiliated with groups such as the CMDA (Christian Medical and Dental Association) and Doctors Without Borders.
During this time of crisis, I (Rick) had many rich conversations with a good friend, who is an infectious disease professor at a leading research university. We talked openly about the nightly news, and the information he was receiving from Africa about the epidemic, and what Christian participation might look like.
Part of our conversations swirled about his desire, as a devoted Christ–follower, and a trained expert in this field, to personally go to Liberia.
My friend wondered aloud: “This is, after all, what God called, and gifted, me to do, right?”
In the midst of the crisis, in October of 2014, Brian Palmer wrote an article for Slate magazine. The subtitle: “Should we worry that so many of the doctors treating Ebola in Africa are missionaries?”
Palmer admits what, at the time, the whole world knew: those who showed up, at the front, were Christians. Personally, he found this troubling, but he concludes, “As an atheist, I try to make choices based on evidence and reason. So until we’re finally ready to invest heavily in secular medicine for Africa, I suggest we stand aside and let God do His work.”
We suggest this epidemic presents a wonderful picture of Christian academics: when there is a great worldwide crisis, where there are academic (and other) issues of immense importance, should there be opportunities to bless the world … you will find talented Christian academics responding to the call.
This is a broken world.
Every day, all around us, we encounter a staggering number of critical issues and problems that need addressing. This is our world, the world to which God has called us.
So, run to the front, bringing with you the hope of Jesus Christ to the front lines.
Rick Hove and Heather Holleman