Some People Don’t Deserve It

I recently watched a documentary about the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. Two stories of the many tragic and heroic events of the day were showcased.

David A. Johnston

The first segment was about David A. Johnston, a scientist who had warned of an impending eruption. He didn’t know when or what the extent of the eruption would be. But in 1980, he was certain it was going to happen sooner rather than later.

A lady who had been conducting her own research on the ridge with Johnston the day before the explosion, wanted to stay overnight to continue her research the next day. He insisted she leave, warning her of the danger.

She did leave. But the dedicated Johnston stayed at his post in order to continue monitoring and gathering data. When the eruption occurred, he reported in, and his last words were, “This is it.”

Johnston was among the 57 people who perished. And yet, his warnings had prompted earlier evacuations. It’s estimated that his efforts saved not only the lady on the ridge, but ultimately thousands of other lives.

Mike Cairns

The second person was Mike Cairns, a Vietnam veteran and National Guard helicopter pilot. He flew into the disaster to search for survivors. He was one of many rescue personnel.

What If They Decided People Didn’t Deserve It?

What if Johnston and Cairns and countless others had decided that the people who didn’t heed warnings, didn’t deserve to be saved or helped?

After all, some people didn’t listen. Didn’t believe. Ignored warnings. And made a joke of what seemed impossible.

Regardless of why people ignored the warnings and were in the area when Mount St. Helens erupted, the rescuers ignored the risk to their safety and did their best to save and help others.

The rescuers themselves may have thought, “Why didn’t these people evacuate? Why didn’t they listen? Why did they build homes where disaster could strike? Why did people visit the area to try to glimpse the predicted apocalypse?”

Those amazing rescuers, regardless of their personal beliefs or flaws or fears or life decisions, did their best to help people in need — regardless of the beliefs or flaws or fears or life decisions of the people in need of rescue.

What If People Really Don’t Deserve It?

I’m overwhelmed with grief when I witness and hear arrogance and wickedness proclaim the hatred of “they don’t deserve help because of the decision they made’ or ‘their beliefs aren’t right’ or fill in the blank”.

The question isn’t “What if people really don’t deserve it?”.

The only question that matters as it echoes in my mind, is:

What if Jesus had decided that He wasn’t going to do what it took to save me, because I didn’t deserve it?

And that question answers any others I might have about whether I should help people.

What helps you decide to help others?

Some People Don't Deserve It – What helps you decide to help others? Share on X

Joni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.

May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.