How do we respect the elderly?
Stand up in the presence of the elderly, and show respect for the aged. Fear your God. I am the LORD. Leviticus 19:32
Eternal Lord,
We live in a culture that prefers agelessness,
a culture that strives to remain eternally young.
We live in an aging culture,
where we see some who age graciously,
and others who do not.
In this season of the silver tsunami,
may we obey your command
to respect the aged.
Forgive us for any harsh words
spoken to aging parents
out of frustration and fear—
words uttered out of
concern about their driving when they shouldn’t,
impatience about their refusal to follow doctor’s orders,
annoyance about their rejection of our offers of help.
Replace our fears about their frailty
with tender concern and honoring respect.
Help us to take the time to listen to their stories,
asking them to tell us about the seasons of sorrow
and seasons of joy they’ve endured and enjoyed.
Help us to honor the wisdom of the aged (Job 12:12)
and seek out their counsel
on marriage and finances and work and children.
Lord, slow us down
so that we might truly respect the aged
as you have called us to do.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read Leviticus 19:32; Timothy 5:1-3; Job 12:12; 1 Timothy 5:8; Proverbs 23:22.
