God made human beings as whole persons, not parts. Jesus died to save whole persons. Healthcare for whole persons means integrating faith and practice.
Dr. Mark Topazian is a friend and colleague who has written a must-read book about the integration of faith and health. His Healing Purpose shows us how this works in the clinic or hospital. My book (Healthcare and the Mission of God) is also about the intersection of faith and health, but with a different slant. Let me explain so you can figure out which to read first.
Key Themes and Differences
As a practicing gastroenterologist and clinical teacher at Mayo, Dr. Mark (Healing Purpose) is burdened by the fact that we, as Christian doctors and nurses, tend to live compartmentalized lives. He shows how Christian faith can bring joy back to clinical practice. He gives practical and wise approaches to patient care. My book (Healthcare and the Mission of God) begins with a similar concern for Christian doctors and nurses serving in a mission setting. The challenges I am burdened with include the broader issues of healthcare and ministry.
Healing Purpose arises from Dr. Mark’s lifelong practice of medicine as a Christian in multiple settings. He shares about the challenges and joys he has experienced, and the joy he finds in caring for both the spiritual and physical aspects of patients. Healthcare and the Mission of God comes out of my own experience as a physician who has held multiple roles in medical missions – from bedside care to teaching to public and community health. My concern is that we discover the “big picture” biblical purpose of the Kingdom of God.
Who Benefits from Each Approach?
Healing Purpose is particularly suited for Christian medical professionals, students and residents in training. Healthcare and the Mission of God will benefit these same professionals, as well as individuals who lead healthcare mission efforts, especially in cross-cultural settings; my target audience extends beyond medical professionals to include ministry and church leaders, as well as everyday Christians seeking to care for people holistically.
Consider Your Interests and Goals
Are you more interested in the practical applications of faith in healthcare? Start with Dr. Mark’s Healing Purpose. His book applies more directly to your patient encounters today. Do you want to explore the broader implications of health and faith in a ministry context? Are you serving (or preparing to serve) in a mission context? Healthcare and the Mission of God will help you align your service with God’s purposes. It will help you place your work in the context of the Kingdom of God.
Practical Tips for Engaging with these Books
In addition to reading, take some time to reflect on the questions provided at the end of each chapter in each book. Make sure to discuss your answers with peers, perhaps by working through the book together. Integrating insights into professional practice takes a community.
Conclusion
Both books will help you understand your role as a Christian in caring for the sick. Integrating faith and health is a lifelong pursuit because it comes from the heart of God. Choose a book that aligns with your current needs and interests, and experience the joy of a deeper understanding of the connection between the gospel and healthcare.
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