So I've been thinking about something lately - since my visit to my folks house.
8 times in the Bible (according to www.biblegateway.com), we are reminded that a principle of the Kingdom is to "honor your father and mother."
I always assumed that I knew what that meant - and I think I did. As a kid, honoring your father and mother has to do with obedience, respect and conducting yourself in such a way that brings your family good thoughts and good things. With children, I think that obedience is the primary way to accomplish this. In fact, twice in the New Testament, Paul flat out states "children, obey your parents."
When I was back home a couple of weeks ago, however, my thoughts about honoring my father and mother (as an adult) began to shift a little. I think at this stage in my life, honoring my father and mother has less to do with obedience and more with finding tangible, meaningful ways to show them that I love and respect them (along with continuing to conduct myself appropriately).
With this new idea in mind, I find myself looking for ways to be intentional about honoring. I saw that my dad had started a couple of projects around the house, so I offered to help out. We ended up spending about 10-12 hours over the few days we were there (and I have the poison ivy to prove it).
I'm looking forward to experiencing and exploring my new approach. Let me know what you think.
Until next time - RevPhil
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3 comments:
Great post. My dad helped me build our swing set in the backyard. I think we were both pretty proud of what we built. And I know my dad smiles everytime he hears Kaila say that Grampy and Daddy built it for her.
I just want to say that the time we spent together working in the yard was such a joy to me. I know that it sounds crazy. How can you have a good time working so hard that you are tired and sore for the next week? Go figure! Thanks for the time you spent with me. It was great!
You were always a fine son of whom your mother and I are very proud. I must admit though this new approach is to honoring is gives me a lot to think about.
Precisely that . . . couldn't agree with you more. Reaching out to your parents, doing something nice for them and reminding them you appreciate all they have done for you through the years is how we show them we obey our parents. There is certainly a shift in responsibilities and how you go about this as we all get older. I struggle relaying this message to my in-laws, though.
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