Father Neuhaus, taking a riff from ancient Greek philosophy, often reminded us, "The unexamined life is not worth living." Therefore, every so often we are wise to slow down, step back, and think about how we, as members of the Body of Christ, are doing. That is, every so often we should enter into a time of self-examination.

To lead us into a thoughtful examination of ourselves, the Church asks us the following six questions:

1. Do you renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness, reject the evil powers of this world, and repent of your sin?

2. Do you accept the freedom and power God gives you to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves?

3. Do you confess Jesus Christ as your Savior, put your whole trust in his grace, and promise to serve him as your Lord, in union with the [C]hurch which Christ has opened to people of all ages, nations, and races?

4. According to the grace given to you, will you remain a faithful member of Christ's holy [C]hurch and serve as Christ's representative in the world?

5. As a member of Christ's universal [C]hurch, will you be loyal to Christ through The United Methodist Church, and do all in your power to strengthen its ministries?

6. As a member of [St. Peter's United Methodist Church], will you faithfully participate in its ministries by your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service, and your witness? (The Baptismal Covenant, The United Methodist Hymnal)

Take a few minutes. Read these questions. Consider these questions. Answer these questions. And think about how we, in God's grace, can do better than we are now doing.

These baptismal-covenant questions remind us that following Christ is about obligation, not consumption. Giving, more than receiving. Serving, rather than being served.

So, how are you doing?