Honor

Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, the Son can do nothing on his own, but only what he sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, the Son does likewise. The Father loves the Son and shows him all that he himself is doing; and he will show him greater works than these, so that you will be astonished. Indeed, just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whomsoever he wishes. The Father judges no one but has given all judgement to the Son, so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Anyone who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. Very truly, I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life, and does not come under judgement, but has passed from death to life. ‘Very truly, I tell you, the hour is coming, and is now here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. For just as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself; and he has given him authority to execute judgement, because he is the Son of Man. Do not be astonished at this; for the hour is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and will come out—those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation. John 5:19-29

There is a great deal of disrespect for people's culture, identity, language, and lifestyle. When we choose to disrespect one, it effects their whole family and community. Jesus knew how easy it is for people to disrespect others, including himself, rather than honoring the gifts and insights people bring. We are invited today to live honoring the whole of humanity and the whole of creation. 

Gracious Creator, you love and honor us

in our varied and diverse ways of life

in our homes and among our sacred people

in the darkest times and in the hope filled light.

We love to watch the failure of other people

we enjoy gossip and disrespect those who try

when we demean those who work for good

we are dishonoring the love you give us.

Take our pride and arrogance from us

and replace it with honor and respect for all

help us live our days with compassion 

and honor your love by the way we live. Amen.