EXODUS 20:12: Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which
the Lord your God is giving you.
On her 80th birthday, a woman from Brooklyn decided to prepare her last will and testament. She
went to her pastor to make two final requests. First, she insisted on cremation.
“What is your second request?” the pastor asked.
“I want my ashes scattered over Bloomingdale’s.”
“Why Bloomingdale’s?”
“Then I’ll be sure that my daughters will visit me twice a week.”
Unfortunately, there’s a lot of truth in that humor. In Japan, for instance, a company is offering actors
to play the part of family members. The actors will visit elderly parents as surrogates for the real
family members. In Oakland, California, a 62-year-old man who could neither walk nor talk was found
abandoned on a flight from El Paso, Texas. A note was pinned to his clothing saying he needed
medical attention.
Such disregard for one’s parents is directly contrary to God’s instructions. He exhorts us to show
respect and concern for our parents and even attaches promises of longevity for those willing to obey.
As life becomes crowded with a multitude of commitments–at school, at church and at home–don’t
forget that the ones who gave you life may now require your attention as well. Check to see if they
have needs that are going unmet; if they live close by, invite them to join you in your family’s
activities.
Most of all, demonstrate your love and respect for them by simply taking time to be with them and
listen to them. If you can’t do that, pick up the telephone and call them often. Let them talk as long as
they want. Their days may not be long now, but God promises that your days will be long upon the
land if you honor your father and mother. Don’t allow this treasure to pass by your life unenjoyed.
HONOR YOUR PARENTS AND THE LORD WILL HONOR YOU