Honor One Another

“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10, NIV).

My son returned to honor his family.

After a year that seemed so long, a year when we felt torn from his life, this son of mine returned.

The first time, he knocked on the door, as if to ask permission. Am I still welcome? Of course! Come in! Have food! We delight in you, son!

Every visit that followed showed intentionality. Each family member could be honored in unique ways.

Grandma, I love your gravy! Can I assist you in shopping at the commissary?

Daddy, how about a game of chess? Will you help me invest my 401K? I value your advice.

Mama, let’s go to karate together. Let me give you a hug. Let me do the dishes without being asked.

Big sister, let’s talk about psychology and how to move through life as quirky creatives.

Big brother, let’s talk philosophy, sharing hefty books and discussing until everyone around us is thoroughly confused.

Little brother, come work out with me. Let’s wrestle, laugh, and share ridiculous memes.

This son of mine understands the value of honoring others. He embraces each member of our home. Someday, maybe, I will honor others as thoughtfully as does my son.

About the author

Anna Gibson is a teacher and writer who is passionate about helping others wrestle hope and meaning out of their struggles. She shares her blog posts on faith, family and philosophy at hope wrestles.com and she will be publishing her first book, Karate Mama in the near future.

Comments

  1. Anna, this was such a wonderful and precious story. Your son truly honored each family member with words unique to each one. May we all learn from him!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *