Last night my wife and I watched the thriller movie, "The Box" starring Cameron Diaz. The previews looked awesome. A little sci fi (my favorite) and suspense. The quality of the movie and plot was above average, but the ending left much to be desired. My favorite part of the movie was the ethical dilemma that leaves you wondering what you would do in the same situation. Cameron Diaz and her husband are struggling financially and a mysterious man arrives offering them a deal. He provides them with a box which has a button. The offer is that they can push the button and receive one million dollars. However, if they push it someone they do not know will die. What would you do?
The basis behind the question deals with love of neighbor versus coveting. As a Christian, we see everything through the eyes of Jesus' command to love one another, the command to not murder, and not to covet. All of these things take precedence over receiving money and living a comfortable life. Yet, how many of us would be severely tempted to push that button, receive one million dollars and forget about the person we do not know.
The movie basically ends with another question. If this box man goes to many homes to make this offer, will he visit people we do not know and then I will be the next person to die? Our friends and family may not die, but will they be harmed? What kind of guilt may we have with this money? Is this good for my neighbor?
At the end of the day, as Christians we would have to say no to such a proposition because the cost of life and the many temptations are much worse than the perceived comfort of more money. May we always value life, our neighbor, and the chance of mercy above our own covetous ways.
Lord have mercy
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