The Sanctity of Life
Many people don’t immediately connect senior care with the broader conversation about the sanctity of human life. Yet I am deeply grateful that Baptist Homes approaches this ministry through a biblical worldview—one that affirms the God-given value of every person from conception to natural death.
Today, twelve states have legalized euthanasia, and our neighbor to the east, Illinois, joined that list last year. Missouri lawmakers will once again consider similar legislation in the coming session. Supporters often frame these practices with easy-to-digest terms such as “medical aid in dying” or “death with dignity,” language designed to make the act seem almost compassionate or purely about personal choice. But behind these phrases there are dark forces at work that seek to undermine the dignity of life that includes suffering. Too often, vulnerable individuals face subtle pressures—from financial concerns and greedy heirs to a very real fear of suffering—that can influence decisions at a time when they most need protection, care, and hope. These moments call for compassion, not the quiet acceptance of ending life prematurely.
Each January, Missouri Baptists observe Sanctity of Life Sunday. My pastor regularly reminds our congregation that honoring life means caring for all who are vulnerable—including the elderly. That reminder resonates deeply with the mission of Baptist Homes. Our guiding principles affirm that we are a distinctively Christian ministry, steadfast in our commitment to the sanctity of life. We hold that every person is created in the image of God and that discipleship should be practiced at every waypoint of life, including the later years.
I am proud to be part of a denomination and state convention that champion the value of every human life. Through ministries like the Missouri Baptist Children’s Home, Baptist Homes & Healthcare Ministries, and the Christian Life Commission, Missouri Baptists continue to defend and uphold the dignity of those whom God has entrusted to our care—from the youngest to the oldest.
Kathryn Butler, MD of Columbia University College, writes, “Anguish afflicts those with terminal illness, and we must minister to our dying neighbors in tenderness (Matt. 22:39; John 13:34–35). But Scripture points us to the sanctity of mortal life, and to our imperative as God’s image bearers to protect life and commit our days to his glory (Gen. 1:26; Exod. 20:13; 1 Cor. 10:31; Rom. 14:8; Acts 17:25). Compassionate intent doesn’t change the fact that in cases of physician-assisted death, demise is artificially—and intentionally—hastened. This is true even while terminal illness broils in the background, and even when death’s purpose is to alleviate suffering.”
At Baptist Homes, our commitment is to provide compassionate, quality care that pleases God, minimizes fear, and maximizes peace of mind for you and your loved ones. I am proud to serve a ministry with these biblically informed values.
Together in His service,
Rodney Harrison
