Wednesday 29^th October – Wednesday of week 30 of the year

Reflection: Ephesians 6: 1-9

THE FIRST COMMANDMENT WITH A PROMISE

Contained in the Bible are numerous commandments, which Jesus Christ divided into two: the love of God and the love of neighbour (Matthew 22: 36-39). If we truly love God scripture says, we will abide by His holy injunction (John 14:15). Our faithful God as today’s psalm pointed out (Psalm 145: 13) surely rewards obedience to His commandments (Isaiah 66:22, John 14: 23). However out of the numerous commandments, one was given special attention as “the first commandment that has a promise attached to it.” It is none other than the commandment to honour your father and mother; that it may be well with us and that we might have long life (Ephesians 6: 1-3; Matthew 7:10; Deuteronomy 5:16). No matter the circumstance, this must always be seen as what it is – a command, not merely an advice, from the all faithful God.

Dear friend, this command is not conditioned on how you perceive your parents. Perhaps you consider them dishonourable individuals that have failed in parental responsibilities and exemplary leadership. However, the Almighty God who knows best says you must nevertheless honour them if you want to live long and be prosperous. We must treat them respectfully and never yell or insult them, even under provocation. Our obedience must go beyond eye service; instead it must be sincere.

We must cultivate the habit of generously giving to them, even as youths. We must not wait until we have a stable income before we deem it fit to buy gifts for our parents. Give them within your means; give even to the seemingly well to do parents. Let us give them listening ears and spend quality time with them especially in their old age whether or not they were there for us in our growing years. Hearty parental blessing is a vital key to prosperity in life (Genesis 27: 1-4).

Beloved, today’s gospel (Luke 13: 22-30) admonished us on the horror and surprise that awaits some on the day of judgement. Let us not fall prey, by belittling or neglecting any of our Lord’s commandments (Matthew 5:19) especially as it concerns honour to parents. When we count on God, He is always ready to give us the needed grace to do His will.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for the gift of my parents. Please help me in all that I do, that I may honour them as you have commanded me. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: YOUCAT 367 – To whom does the Fourth Commandment refer, and what does it require of us?

The Fourth Commandment refers in the first place to one’s physical parents, but also to the people to whom we owe our life, our well-being, our security, and our faith.

What we owe in the first place to our parents—namely love, gratitude, and respect—should also govern our relations to people who guide us and are there for us.

 HIDE A TREASURE: “Children, obey your parents in Lord, for this is right. “Honour your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise) “that it may be well with you and that you may live long on the earth.” Ephesians 6: 1-3 RSV-CE

Readings for Today: Ephesians 6: 1-9; Psalm 145: 10-14; Luke 13: 22-30