Transfusion!

October 28th, 2023| Topic: RaMbLeS | 0

Each year, an estimated 6.8 million people in the U.S. donate blood, and 13.6 million units (almost that many pints = almost half that amount in liters) of whole blood and red blood cells are collected in the U.S. in a year.

But it may not be just blood and blood products that are passed on. Some scientists are starting to ask whether something unexpected may be transmitted at the same time as the blood transfusion.

Five years ago, for example, a study by Geneva University in the International Journal of Clinical Transfusion Medicine reported how nearly half of patients reported changes in their behavior and values after receiving blood transfusions: “Perceived Changes in Behavior and Values After a Red Blood Cell Transfusion.”

The researchers interviewed seven people who’d received blood transfusions for orthopaedic surgery, such as hip replacements, and found three out of seven believed that their personalities had changed. One said he slept and dreamt a lot more than before; and another said his sense of taste had been changed. A third reported that after the transfusion he felt happier and stronger.

What does all this mean? Who knows?

But this we know.

For the life of the flesh
is in the blood ….
Leviticus 17:11

However there is more to this assertion. The rest of the verse goes on to say …

… it is the blood
by reason of the life
that makes atonement.
Leviticus 17:11

You see, the problem with me, and you, and the rest of the world is sin! Sin is intrinsic to the human condition. Sin creates a barrier between humanity and deity. There can be no communion between the two; darkness and light cannot co-exist. And the ultimate consequence of sin is dreadful one, indeed—eternal separation from God who is infinitely holy. Unless … the price of sin is paid and sin is atoned for.

That’s where the hematological motif in the Bible comes into play.

… without shedding of blood
there is no forgiveness.
Hebrews 9:22

In His abundant mercy and amazing love, God opened a way for mankind to enjoy communion with Him, now and forever. He, Himself, Jesus Christ, would pay the price of sin. That’s what God did on the cross, bearing my sin and yours, paying for it with His life, in my place and yours. His blood shed to wash away our sins.

In Him we have redemption
through His blood,
the forgiveness of our trespasses,
according to the riches of His grace,
which He lavished on us.
Ephesians 1:7–8

Transfused!

The moment one places one’s trust in Jesus Christ as one’s Savior from sin, believing that He died on the cross and rose again the third day—the payment made fully, finally, and forever—at that moment of faith, the slate is wiped clean. Sin is no longer an issue between the believer and God. Eternal life with God has begun! What a lavish grace—an undeserved, free gift! What a demonstration of God’s incredible love!

For God so loved the world,
that He gave
His only begotten Son,
that whoever believes in Him
shall not perish,
but have eternal life.
John 3:16

If you haven’t come to that decision, may I urge you to place your trust in Christ? The most important decision of your life now and life forever!

To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood …
to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Revelation 1:5–6

Transfused!

SOURCE: Daily Mail; International Journal of Clinical Transfusion Medicine