Our scripture this morning is 1 Timothy 5:1-2.
Never speak harshly to an older man, but appeal to him respectfully as you would to your own father. Talk to younger men as you would to your own brothers. Treat older women as you would your mother, and treat younger women with all purity as you would your own sisters.
Paul writes to his pupil and partner Timothy with guidance on how to treat the family of God. It seems very simple on the surface but even today we often ignore this lesson on our interactions. Getting along and caring for one another is essential to our relationship with God.
During the time Jesus was on earth He showed us how we are to live together as the family of God, ensuring that all are loved, valued and provided for. While we may see our modern culture as more complex, our responsibilities are no different now.
Societies may have changed over time, but as people we have not. We are still called to care for the last, the least and the lost. Jesus taught us to think of everyone as family members and Paul insures that Timothy knows this as a pastor charged with caring for the community. As members of that community, we need to step up.
Loving Lord, help us to see the needs of others without judging why they are in need. Help us to live together as Your children, and to be part of Your plan for our salvation. Amen.
