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Font-St. John the Baptist, Duncan 

‘I Promise’

On December 29, 2024, the world paid farewell—Rest Eternal—to one of its greatest humanitarians of our time—Jimmy Carter.

When Jimmy Carter died, he was the oldest living president of the United States. When he left office at the age of 56, he was the youngest living president. 

In my opinion, Jimmy Carter’s greatest contribution to the world was his unwavering faith. 

Over the years Carter stood up for his strong principles. One of his most talked-about characteristics was his promise to the people he would not lie to the citizens of the United States.

We could take that a step further, his promise to the world. 

Carter was dedicated to his family, his country, and his Christian faith.  Perhaps, he asked himself (when leaving the Oval Office) “What good work can I do for the rest of my life?” 

Much has been written testifying to the “good works” Jimmy Carter did for the rest of his life.

His work was not about expensive fees for addressing people at large conferences. His work was about ‘work’ and that of his lifelong workmate—Rosalynne Carter. They were more comfortable wearing hard hats and work jeans, and picking up hammers, saws, and tape measures to create homes that would give a better life to people in need. 

I reflected on the life of Jimmy Carter.

I found myself reviewing our promises made in baptismal covenant:

  • To believe in the one triune God; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

  • Share in the apostle’s teaching.

    (Carter’s example of leading Bible Study in his parish church. Imagine having the leader of your country sharing in Bible study with you!)

  • Resisting evil. Tell the truth, regardless of the cost.

  • For our life to be an example to be exemplified to the world.

  • To acknowledge your faith in the world.

  • Live a life of service to your neighbour with love.

  • Work for peace and dignity for all people. 

  • To guard against the wrongful use of gifts of creation in our land, air, forests, and waters. 

Yes, it is a tall order. At the same time, it is what we repeat each time we share in the sacrament of Baptism. May we each be empowered to serve humanity in the spirit of our Christian Baptism.

Recently, I received a photo that was taken in our family home on the farm in 1961. My parents were also in that picture. I reflected on the teachings and gifts of their lives shared with my brothers and me.

My parents may not have had the resources of a past president or prime minister, but they shared, and lived, the principles of Christian baptism in their life. 

I thank God for those gifts daily.

Blessings.
Archdeacon Brian+