I often ask myself this question. Even as an Atheist, the principles of love and peace that Jesus may have taught are beautiful. For example, I always try to help people in need. I would like to think I would never turn my back on somebody requesting aid. Yet that is what a Christian doctor name Gary Merrill did.
In Bakersfield, California Dr. Gary Merrill, Pediatrician, turned away Tasha Childress and her daughter because of the way they look. Ostensibly sighting the teachings of Christ as justification of his decision.
The doctor said he was just following his beliefs by creating a Christian atmosphere for his patients. Of course, creating a Christian atmosphere by excluding those that don't fit his definition of "good" or "Christian" does not seem very Christ like. In fact, is seems opposite - evil.
Dr. Merrill made a value judgement based on tattoo's. He choose to believe that a women who had tattoos could not possibly be a Christian, and therefor did not deserve service for her innocent and ill child. It is discrimination of the worst sort, sick and corrupt. I wonder if the color of the mother's skin played a factor?
It is his right to deny service under the law. But, was it right to do so? How does a doctor turn his back on a sick child? How does anyone turn their back on a child in pain? How does a Christian turn their back on a sick child in the name of his religion? Dr. Gary Merrill does not sound "Christian" to me, he sounds like a self-righteous jerk.
Part of the Hippocratic Oath reads:
To keep the good of the patient as the highest priority.
The Duties of a Doctor reads:
Make the care of your patient your first concern
Dr. Merrill was within his rights to refuse service. He made himself a hypocrite by doing so, and he is a poor example for his faith.
