Emphasis Preaching Journal

Ninety percent of Americans support the concept of organ donation. Eighty percent day they are willing to donate their organs. Every major religious group in the United States supports or permits organ donation by their members. It would seem on the surface that the soil has been well prepared by the media and medical community for a rich harvest of organs available for transplants. Still, many life-giving organs do not get used because we do not sow the seeds of awareness. The tragedy of seven-year-old Nicholas Green being killed in a drive-by shooting while vacationing in Italy was partially redeemed by his parents donating his organs which were used to give life to seven people in that country. Beyond that gift, the story so touched the hearts of the Italian people that organ donor pledges increased by 25 percent. Margaret Hill's unexpected death caused by a brain aneurysm led to another seven people receiving life through her donated organs. The family asked that this be emphasized at her funeral so that those present might consider donating their organs at death. Donated organs give life, and medical technology has created both good soil and a need for a generous harvest. Sow seeds of life by signing a donor card, and by talking with family members about your desire to be an organ donor.
-- Olson