Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“In the same way, you who are younger must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you must clothe yourselves with humility in your dealings with one another.”
NL Daily Devotion for Tuesday, August 9, 2022
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
Kids need security. Even those teens I talked about yesterday who can sniff out BS a mile away. As much as they want someone to be straight with them, they also want to know what is expected of them. For me growing up (and sometimes now) one of my biggest triggers was not knowing what I was doing—not understanding what I needed to know. It sent my anxiety through the roof and often led me to acting out (my kindergarten report card notes that “She still has trouble dealing with frustration.” It’s hanging on my wall.) I was—and am—terrible at asking for help, but when help was offered and I finally knew what was going on, I was able to relax and be a downright pleasant kiddo.
So yes, folks who are younger need to listen to the wisdom of their elders and trust that they have a better grasp on what’s what (most of the time?) When they do that, they can enjoy the security of being lovingly guided, and flourish.
Who is an elder in my life whose wisdom has been important to my faith?
[Caveat: I am not, of course, saying it is ever a good idea to blindly accept the authority of someone just because they’re older or in power or what-have-you. But in a healthy community, elders have much to offer and it should be honored. Just sayin’.]