Christian Living

AN APPEAL FOR RESPECT

by Morris Inch
02/17/17
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AN APPEAL FOR RESPECT

Our daughter Lois and I usually share skype for a while Monday through Friday. On one occasion, she asked if I were writing an article—since this is a common practice. By way of response, I inquired if she had some topic she would like me to address. Without hesitation, she cited respect as sadly lacking in our society.

Now respect implies showing due regard for God, humans, creatures, and the environment in which we live. God as the creator and sustainer of life, humans as created in his image, and the larger creation as his gracious provision. As sometimes expressed, life perceived in terms of a sacred canopy. While in contrast to the law of the jungle, suggesting survival of the fittest.

It remains to explore this thesis in select instances. In Jewish tradition, three are said to be involved in giving birth: God and one’s parents. Consequently, all three have invested interests. Now my mother became pregnant later than women usually do, and while in poor health. Today, many would encourage her to have an abortion. Less so in her time, when there was greater respect for that entrusted to her. In any case, she gave birth to a son, and named him Morris. Yes, I was that child.

From her perspective, this showed respect for God as the divine source of life. It also showed respect for the gift of life within her. In this regard, the psalmist affirms: "from my mother’s womb you have been my God" (Psa. 22:10). Not simply from birth, but from the security of his mother’s body.

Once birthed, the sage enjoins: "Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They will be a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck" (Prov. 1:8-9). Initially, listen to what they have to say. In this regard, "One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say" (Bryant McGill). It is as we listen that we learn. From our parents, teachers, and other associates.

Consequently, we should choose our mentors carefully. This recalls a time I was having lunch in the college cafeteria with the highly respected counselor Donald Tweedie, when a student paused at our table to ask for his guidance concerning the selection of a major. Tweedie, who was known for his uncoventional advice, replied: "Find someone who understands life, and learn as much as you can from him or her."

While mentors abound, Jesus assuredly qualifies as the prime option. Persons were amazed at his teaching, and continue to be so. Yet many show him disrespect, as when he is described as nothing more than an ignorant Galilean peasant.

Among other things, Jesus taught that we should respect those in authority. Since they are responsible to God for their performance in office. Whether we agree with their agenda or not, since this may vary.

Moreover, Jesus taught that we should respect those who are not religiously observant. In this connection, the rabbinic tradition was no less concerned for repentance. However, Jesus befriended the offender, and thereby showed genuine interest and respect. While criticized by the religious establishment for associating with the unrepentant.

Whether in this regard or some other, "Knowledge will give you power, but character respect" (Bruce Lee). This casts character in context of wisdom, as set over against knowledge.