During this season of Pentecost, Christians are called into the world to spread the good news of the Gospel to everyone. We promise in our baptismal covenant that we will respect the dignity of every human being. These words are not just some nice thoughts. We are called by God to live them out in our everyday life and work. The Great Commandment, to “love the Lord [our] God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and…to “‘love our neighbor as ourself,’” compels us to live out the covenant to respect the dignity of every human being, not just the ones who look like us (Matthew 19:19, Matthew 22:37-39, Mark 12:30-31, Luke 10:27 NIV).

History is filled with times that Christians have not lived out this vow. European explorers attempted to conquer the people they encountered on their expeditions. The slave trade’s exploitation happened, and in some places, it still happens. Native American children were taken and pressured to erase their culture. Some Asian-Americans were interned during World War II. These are just a few examples of Christians who denied the belief that we should hold that all human beings are created in God’s image.

Today we deny the fact that all human beings are created in God’s image by not standing up when people are abused because of the color of their skin. We deny people’s dignity when we do not speak out against systemic issues that cause one group to have rights that others are not allowed. Christians are called to ensure that the dignity of every human being is protected because of the basic belief that we are all created in God’s image. Being created in God’s image is a gift that God has granted to us all. This Pentecost, may we work to live out and fight for the dignity of every human being to the glory of God.

Please note: I will be installed to the new position of West Branch Missioner at Trinity Pro Cathedral in Williamsport, PA at 4:00 p.m. on November 13th. Everyone is welcome! Bishop Audrey Scanlan will be the celebrant at this service. Many other persons in the West Branch Convocation will be participating in various ways. Blessings at the end of the season of Pentecost, and I am looking forward to continuing to serve Christ in the greater Williamsport Area.