Honor the Aged

Note from today’s Bible reading: Leviticus 19-22

Amid various laws that explained to the children of Israel how they were to conduct themselves as God’s chosen people, God told them how they were to treat their elders. He said, “You shall rise up before the grayheaded and honor the aged, and you shall revere your God; I am the Lord” (Leviticus 19:32).

It was certainly important that they “revere” God. After all, He was their creator, the one who delivered them from bondage, and the one who provided for them daily. Yet they were also to show respect for those who were older.

For the children of Israel then and for us today, this attitude is important for a few reasons. First, it is a visible way to honor God by showing respect for those who came before us. Second, it leads to opportunities to help those who can no longer help themselves as they age. Third, it provides chances for wisdom to be passed down from one generation to another. And fourth, it demonstrates humility from the younger generation that they would consider the interests of others.

So honor the aged. Avoid the idea that the current or upcoming generation is all that is important. Let us recognize the blessing that our elders are to us and the responsibility that we have to them.