R E S P E C T

"Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king." 1 Peter 2: 17

The elections in Connecticut did not go as my husband and I had hoped. We groaned over breakfast and fear the political projections for the next two years. We fear for our small business as well as for the dreams of our children and grandchildren. We know we live in the wrong state for our political and religious beliefs but our business is grounded here as well as our extended family. So, what to do with our situation?

We have a number of options:

1. We could continue to groan, complain, whine and bad mouth our political leaders and their decisions. WE didn't vote for them so we DO have the right to complain, don't we?

2. We could become more politically involved other than voting, but we don't have that much time or patience.

3. We could start all over again and move ourselves and our business to another, more suitable state. But that's economic suicide right now and besides, we'd miss our family.

4. We could show our politicians the respect their office deserves.

My last supervisor and I differed in our thoughts about respect. She believed that NO ONE deserved respect (based on position of authority or age) unless they EARNED it. I however, argued that everyone deserved respect, especially if they held a position of authority or out of courtesy for their age. However, I also believe an individual can lose someone's respect based upon their misconduct or misbehavior.

In reading Peter's writing today (1 Peter 2:13-17) my thoughts are in agreement with scripture. In this section Peter is addressing the issue of submitting to authority (rulers and masters). He instructs us, (v. 13,14)"Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king...or the governors..." Why? (v.15)"by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish of foolish men." How? (v 17) By showing "proper respect to everyone..." From those who are like-minded in the faith, to honoring the king and especially God.

So, to my newly elected politicians I submit to your authority and the office you hold. I will continue to hold you up before God's throne in prayer. I pray that you will be able to hold the respect of your office by conducting yourselves with honor and by respecting the people that you serve. I will hold onto God's promise "that in all things God works for the good of those who love him..." Romans 8:28.