This coming Sunday at St. John’s, we will be baptizing a little girl into the family of God.  Whenever we have a baptism, it is an opportunity for all of us to consider our own baptismal promises and commit ever anew to the work of God’s Kingdom.  One of the questions that we are asked when we renew our baptismal vows is, “Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being.” To that question, the people of God (you and I) respond, “I will with God’s help.” 

It’s important to note that when we answer the question, we do so as an individual.  It is not, “We will with God’s help,” but rather, “I will with God’s help.” Before answering, each of us should faithfully consider whether we really mean it.  Am I really committed to justice and peace and willing to do something about it?  Do I really respect the dignity of every human being, and am I willing to actually put my respect into action?

For the past several weeks, we have been collecting backpacks and school supplies for children who need them and cannot afford them.  Donations will be given to Casa Maria, a ministry based out of Saint Nicholas Church in Minneapolis.  While you may not have thought about it in this way, your donations are precisely what it means to respect the dignity of every human being. On account of your donations, children will be afforded the dignity they deserve as beloved children of God. I am so grateful for your generous and good hearts.

Of course, providing school supplies is just one small way that we fulfill our baptismal vows. There are countless other ways that we may bear witness to our commitment to walk in the Way of Jesus. To follow through on our baptismal promises consistently and sacrificially is hard work.  Truly, we can do it only with God’s help. May we be aware of the power of the Holy Spirit working in us to do God’s will. And when we are next asked, “Will you…,” may each of us heartily respond, “I will, with God’s help.”

~Father Art