Based on "Case Study: Fetal Abnormality" andthe required topic study materials, write a 750-1,000-word reflection that answers the following questions: What is theChristian view of the nature of human

What is the Christian concept of the imago Dei? How might it be important to health care, and why is it relevant?

Re: Topic 2 DQ 1

Imago Dei means “image of God” in Latin. It is the metaphysical expression associated specifically to humans, which signifies the symbolical and unique connection of God and humanity. It has its origins in Genesis 1:27 where “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” This does not imply that God is in human form, instead, it implies that humans are in the image of God in their moral, spiritual, and intellectual essence. Humans are endowed with unique qualities like the ability to understand rationally, creative liberty, self- actualization and many more that set them apart from other creatures. As Christians we must realize our dual potential of evil versus good and act in accordance with God’s will and law.

We learn from the Bible that each individual, regardless of their ability or disability, bears the image of God. This is inherent, not imputed, and may be difficult to understand. Everyone is created in his image regardless of their socioeconomic status, race, religion or educational background. Imago Dei is relevant to the field of nursing because people have different perception of health and religion. As nurses we are taught to care for patients, listen attentively and be non-judgmental. I approach every opportunity to care for any patient with the concept of the image of God in mind. When we consider every human being as creation made in the image of God, caring for them will be void of bias. Understanding how every patient is valued by God helps us as nurses to provide care in a way that respects individual preferences, freedom and preserves the patient’s dignity. The question of right and wrong guides us in every decision we make as care givers. Every day, we come across situations that involve challenging questions like end-of life care, limitation of treatment, use of limited or expensive resources. Our ability to answer such questions is guided by the principles of our faith which inherent in the belief that all human beings are created in the image of God. Care should never be provided based on how wealthy you are or denied based on how poor you are. 

REFERENCES

Orr, R. D. (2015). Incorporating Spirituality into Patient Care. AMA Journal of Ethics. Retrieved from https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/incorporating-spirituality-patient-care/2015-05

Ross, M. (2019). Imago Dei. Sanford, FL: Ligonier Ministries. Retrieved from ps://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/imago-dei/