My parents taught me too many things to count. The older I get, the more I appreciate what they taught me. Much of what they taught me was modeled for me more than lectured at me (although they were pretty good at lecturing too!). As I reflect on those lessons I realize that Jesus would have loved them too.
Seven Cool things My Parents Taught Me
1. Saying “Thank You”
Ten Lepers were healed by Jesus – nine Israelites and one Samaritan. Jesus sent them to show themselves to the priest. Only the Samaritan bothered to return and say “thank you.” Jesus was amazed and praised the one who said “thank you” (Luke 17:15-19).
No matter who you are or where you come from – saying “thank you” is a great way to honor Jesus.
2. Apologizing when wrong
Jesus advised that if you were bringing your gift to the altar and remembered that someone had something against you – that you were to leave your gift and first go and be reconciled – take the initiative – apologize and make things right (Matt. 5:23-24).
He went on to advise that if someone was taking you to court, it’s better to settle things before you go before the judge because you could end up in jail. The inference is that if you are wrong in the matter you’d better take responsibility and apologize before you go before a judge – because, ultimately, you will be held accountable (Matt. 5:25-26).
It is always honorable to apologize when you are wrong or your actions have hurt someone.
3. Showing up on time
Jesus healed a woman a little girl and countless others all in one day (Mark 5). Jesus always seemed to be at exactly the right place at exactly the right time!
This one is a matter of respecting other people. Habitually showing up late sends the message that your time is more important than their time – which sends the message that you are more important than they are.
4. Being nice to strangers
Jesus told the story of a man who was beaten up by robbers and left on the side of the road bleeding and dying. Several respectable citizens walked by, saw the man, and kept on walking. They didn’t stop because the man was a stranger – he wasn’t their kind. Then a Samaritan walked by and stopped to help. Who was the good neighbor? The answer is obvious. The one who stopped.
Being nice to the stranger – the foreigner – the alien – is almost ubiquitous with God’s commands (Exod. 22:21; 23:9; Lev. 25:35; Matt. 25:35). In fact, God commanded them, “Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt” (Exod. 22:21).
The Hebrew people had been strangers and foreigners and aliens for most of their existence. God reminded them of this – and commanded them to be compassionate to the stranger.
He warned them not to judge a book by its cover – you never know the quality and potential of the stranger – and, how your kindness could encourage them to greatness.
Who knows – that stranger you help may even be an angel in disguise! (Heb. 13:2)
5. Listening without interrupting
The Jewish sage spent much of his life in lonely wilderness settings, listening for the voice of God. Jesus was no exception (Mt. 14:13; Mk. 1:13, 35; Mk. 6:32; Lk. 4:42; Jn.11:54). In doing so, Jesus prepared himself to be a good listener – listening with his heart as well as his head.
We are told on several occasions that Jesus instinctively knew “the thoughts” of people (Mt. 12:25; Mk. 2:8; Lk. 5:22; 6:8).
I don’t think this was some supernatural ability to read minds. I think Jesus had an extraordinary ability to read body language, facial expressions, and all the sounds we make in between our words. He is the one who can relate to us in every way (Heb. 4:15).
He can do that because he listens (Ps. 4:3; 34:17; 69:33).
6. Learning and using people’s names
When Jesus called Zacchaeus down from the tree – he used his name (Luke 19:5). Jesus already knew his name. Amazing! Jesus understood the importance of learning and using people’s names.
I know… I know … it’s hard to learn everyone’s name. The older I get the harder it is to remember! However, few things say you care more than remembering a person’s name. Few things signal your full attention to a person more than learning and using their name.
7. Holding doors open
According to the Apostle Paul, God expressed his kindness to us in the form of his son, Jesus Christ (Eph. 2:7). Paul listed kindness as a fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22).
Holding the door open for a person is such a simple act of kindness. It takes two seconds of your life to do it, and it speaks volumes. Especially compared to the millions who are so self-consumed that they hurriedly walk through a door allowing it to slam behind them, right in your face!
Hold the door open for the person in front of you or behind you – It’s as good as a handshake or a friendly nod – and it’s just the kind thing to do!
These may be old-fashioned ideas, but I think Jesus would love them! Blessings to you as you seek to passionately pursue Jesus!
