Promise!

People come in different shapes and sizes. So do parents. Some of us are blessed to have parents who are God-fearing and loving. Some of us do not. Some of us have parents who are strict disciplinarians; some have parents who are not. Some parents are generous, some are stingy. Some are logical and fair. Some are quite unfair. Regardless of what our parents look like, or behave like, regardless of their parenting style, they all have one thing in common: All parents love their children and would give the best for their children.

Whoever our parents are, whatever kind of person they are, whether we have close relationship with them or not, we are called to Honor our parents. (Exodus 20:12)

This is the only commandment that comes with a promise “so that you may live long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.” The promise of long life – interesting, isn’t it? In what way does honoring our parents promote long life? If we live honorably, and if we do honor our parents and elders, our own children will see our model and thus will inherit the “promise” in the form of their values, character, and attitudes. In this sense, regardless of how long our physical bodies live on earth, our moral and spiritual legacy will remain with our children, and if we truly did it right, with our children’s children.

As an adult, how do I honor my parents?

Compared to other cultures, the Filipino-Chinese people often do not have problem showing their filial piety. We obey their wishes even if we do not always agree with them. We try to make them happy. We live with them and if not, we visit them often. Though, it doesn’t always mean giving up our own life so that things can always be comfortable and convenient for them. We do try our best to make things comfortable and convenient for them.

Honoring your parents means that you acknowledge them as the people God used to bring you into the world. Honoring your parents means honoring the place God gave them. It involves treating them with dignity and respect. It involves doing nothing to intentionally embarrass, hurt, or disgrace them.

Honoring your parents is something that is first between you and God. Whether your parents feel honored or not won’t be the measure when you stand before God. The measure will be your heart’s intent. Do you do it sincerely? Or do you show up simply because you are obligated? Do you honestly love them or do you consider them simply a part of your responsibility?

Honor your father and mother. This is one of the Old Testament’s greatest pearl of wisdom. In it lies your life, your future and your children’s future.