May 22 – Responsibly Faithful to Family

When Jesus then saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, "Woman, behold, your son!" Then He said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother!" From that hour the disciple took her into his own household. John 19:26-27 

Jesus cared for his mother—and likewise expects us to care for our parents. Jesus assigned John to be Mary’s “son” as he was dying on the cross. Paul gives teachings on taking care of family members.

…but if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to practice piety in regard to their own family and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God. ... But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 1 Timothy 5:4, 8

There is nothing more basic or specific that the Ten Commandments where we are told to honor our parents…

Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be prolonged in the land which the LORD your God gives you. Exodus 20:12

The Jewish custom of caring for elderly parents is based on the direction of this fifth commandment. Even today Jews, whether they are Reformed, Orthodox or Conservative, all view caring for parents as a responsibility mandated by God. There is no higher authority giving us direction in our lives…and in that manner that is how Jesus treated Mary, his mother. We should honor and revere our parents like that, too, taking care of them physically, spiritually, and monetarily as necessary. It is our responsibility. If our parents are no longer living, we can honor their memory. For ourselves, we need to train up our children to care for us, too.   

Training Tip – In your family time, read the Ten Commandments again to your children and the verse where Jesus assigns John the responsibility of caring for Mary. Instruct them that we are to care for our parents, our elders like Jesus taught. Discuss what it means to honor. Being “devoted” or “giving preference” to others honors them. Putting their needs above our own.  

     Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor…Romans 12:10. (See March 18, 2013 blog.) 

Lord Jesus, help us to be responsible for honoring our parents in a loving way—for as we love others, we love You.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.