My Dad was the most religious and faithful person I've ever personally known. He became this way after having open heart surgery in his early 40's. He died on the table briefly. In that moment, he had an afterlife experience. He came to a very large wood door. It was beautiful, but it was closed. At that very moment when he looked up and saw it was closed, he knew it was not his time and was revived by the doctors.
He spent the rest of his life trying to live up to the second chance God gave him. He taught catechumens (sp?), confirmation classes, marriage classes through the church, etc.
All of this time he was often in the care of doctors. He had other heart procedures, a pacemaker, prostrate and other surgeries.
He died in September in his sleep. He was 77 years old. He taught his religion classes like normal that night, then went into the church to pray. The priest met him coming out (as he told my Mom later.) and asked if everything was alright. He said my Dad often went to the church to pray when he was troubled. My Dad just told him he had some things to set straight. The next day he was dead. I believe he knew.
A week or so later, I had a dream. My Dad came to me where I lay in my bed. He looked younger-my age (early 40's). I was surprised to see him. He leaned down and talked very softly into my ear. I couldn't discern anything he said, but at that moment, I felt total peace wash over me like I've never felt before. He leaned down, kissed me on the cheek, then was gone.
I believe he came to visit me that night & it wasn't just a dream. I also believe he earned his place with God. As my brother said, "The door was open this time.".
The bottom line of all of this is that my Dad realized that doctors and medicine were part of God's plan. Their knowledge and skills granted to them by God kept him alive for nearly twice as long as he would have been without them.
He would not have been able to fulfill the things he did without their (and God's) help and healing.
The couple were wrong not to let doctors treat their child. I do not believe they should be punished. Their suffering the loss of a child is punishment enough.
For those of you who do not believe, that is your right. As for me, there is no doubt He is real.
