I have promises on my mind this weekend. On Sunday, Harrison Louie Wright will be baptized and his parents and sponsors will make some promises. Harrison will be asked to affirm these promises made for him at the time of his Confirmation.
Sometimes making a promise can feel like a burden. It is a commitment. It is something we are meant to remember and keep. But today I’m struck by the fact that the same promises we make that can feel burdensome at times, can also become gifts in our lives.
At our Confirmation retreat tomorrow, the youth will explore how the promises made at baptism help build resilience in times of difficulty. They are truly gifts.
Research shows that among the things that help people bounce back after setbacks include: community, hope, and meaning-making.
The five promises of baptism are about these same things: community, hope, and meaning-making.
At baptism, we promise: 1. to hear the word of God (hope); 2. to live among God’s people (community); 3. to proclaim the good news of God (hope); 4. to care for others in the manner of Jesus (meaning-making); and 5. to strive for justice and peace in the world (meaning-making).
Community, hope, and meaning-making are part of the mission of the church. Sometimes participating in these activities can feel burdensome, but especially when life throws us a curveball, they become gifts.
See you in church on Sunday – and bring someone else!
In Christ,
Pastor Jen