Imagine If All Kept the 5th Commandment!

Hello everyone, and welcome as we embrace the blessing of the weekly Sabbath!

Imagine a world where everyone truly honors their parents, as the fifth commandment instructs: 'Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.'

Before diving into this commandment, let's reflect on the first four, which shape our relationship with God. Jesus simplified them into one powerful command: 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.'

The call to honor our parents bridges our love for God to our relationships with others. To honor means to show deep respect and reverence. When we break the commandments that follow, we dishonor our parents and undermine the values they instilled in us.

Countries like Japan, where honoring parents and elders is paramount, experience significantly lower crime rates compared to the U.S.1.   For example the U.S murder rate is 26 times higher than Japan. This highlights how a culture of respect can foster safer communities.

Imagine if everyone embraced the fifth commandment! There would be greater thoughtfulness and respect toward all, creating a ripple effect of kindness in society.

As Paul reminds us: 'Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. "Honor your father and mother," which is the first commandment with promise: that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.' (Eph 6:1-2, NKJV)

Honoring our parents not only enriches our lives but also supports building good habits and character, steering us away from choices that complicate and can damage our lives.

Even if one might say they have unhonorable parents, they have a spiritual Father to honor in how they live daily. So, no one has an excuse for living a life that reflects dishonor to their father and mother.

God wisely placed this command in the heart of the Ten Commandments. Imagine the positive change if our youth and those of all ages honored their parents more! 

So, as we celebrate this Sabbath, let's honor our spiritual Father by remembering the sanctity of this day.

Have a wonderful Sabbath, everyone!

William M. Bradford

For those who might enjoy the video version click the link below

https://youtu.be/Gr4cIqzVbXA

1 https://www.nationmaster.com/country-info/compare/Japan/United-States/Crime