Change to Keep

Message From the Director of Pastoral Care

Michael Rogers

Perspective is critical because it matters how we see others, our purpose, and our future. Here at Baptist Health, our faith shapes our worldview. This faith shows up in our decision-making, compassionate care, and a genuine love for others. There’s an old cliche that says, “People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care!”

Baptist Health’s mission is to provide quality patient service and respond to the changing needs of Arkansans with Christian compassion. Quality care is a high priority despite the cost and demands of the day. We value our patients and families by providing them with quality service. These times are constantly changing, and it demands our methodologies to change –– but not at the expense of our quality. Our Christian compassion demonstrates our quality. Christ was often moved with compassion before he healed those afflicted by disease. We must continue to see others through the lens of Christ and as an opportunity to show the love of Christ.

Baptist Health believes that health care is more than a business. We are a healing ministry. Our belief system gives us perspective on our purpose. To be a good steward of God’s blessing, we must approach this work from a business perspective. However, our belief reminds us that we are more than a business. Spirituality connects us with a purpose that goes beyond ourselves. This calling is to be a healing ministry. We are in the service of providing ways that foster healing and growth. I am excited that you and I are a part of a healing ministry that gives us purpose outside ourselves. Theologian Howard Thurman said it best when he stated, “Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”

Baptist Health’s vision is to improve the health of Arkansans by changing the way health care is delivered. When we look at our vision, it should make us excited for our future. We have so many opportunities for advancement and to improve the quality of life for so many Arkansans. Presently, we have seen this in our use of technology and by adding many more access points that will help others get the necessary care they need. In these changing times, our vision reminds us that we will also change.

In my church, we sing a hymn that reminds me of our vision. This hymn is named “A Charge to Keep I Have” by Charles Wesley. Two stanzas say “A charge to keep I have, a God to glorify, a neverdying soul to save, and fit it for the sky. To serve the present age, my calling to fulfill, O may it all my pow’rs engage to do my Master’s will!”