Mark 7:9-13

And he continued, “You have a fine way of setting aside the commands of God in order to observe[c] your own traditions! For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and mother,’and, ‘Anyone who curses their father or mother is to be put to death.’ But you say that if anyone declares that what might have been used to help their father or mother is Corban (that is, devoted to God)— then you no longer let them do anything for their father or mother. Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that.” - Mark 7:9-13

Dear Jesus,

You have deep concern that we would practice a love and faith based righteousness that drives us to take care of others including our parents. How it must hurt you when people who call themselves your children would neglect or even disrespect their aging parents. Thank you for the parents you have given us. They spent their best years helping our lives get off to a good start and have been there for us through our adult journey. Help us think of ways to make their golden years pleasant and rewarding. Give us patience toward them when their weaknesses seem express themselves more often as they near their home-going. We want to love them to the end just like you did for your mother from the cross.

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

When you wonder how to treat aging parents watch a loving mother with her toddler.