1 Thessalonians 5:12-23
“Recognizing human goodness – in ourselves and others – may be the most radical act we can take.”
– Tara Brach
Today’s word is “respect.” I expected this to be one of the more obscure words in our series. It was difficult to find a scripture to use, because the vocabulary of respect wasn’t much used in biblical times. The concept shows in many ways as our ancestors told stories about themselves and God’s way, but the word itself is rare. Then when I was scrolling through my phone looking for any way to procrastinate writing a sermon, there was “respect” in many places. A story about Lawrence Welk showing respect for a young accordion player. A podcast about how our country struggles with lack of respect for one another and needs leaders to speak respectfully as an example. A sermon about how Jesus respects us and welcomes a variety of viewpoints, encouraging us to do the same.. A definition of respect that lifts up courtesy and diversity. Maybe respect isn’t an incidental idea on this journey of values, but a core value that makes life better for us all.
I like the way the author of the letter to the church in Thessalonica encourages people to respect their leaders. On the surface that reminds me of parents who insist that children show respect by obeying them, agreeing with everything they tell them to do. That kind of respect comes with a position of authority. But before the passage is done, people are also encouraged to test out the ideas people express and follow those that seem best. Respect comes to those who earn respect. Maybe respect in a family is meant to be mutual – honoring ideas and preferences from every member – young and old.
That’s also true in the many ways people are encouraged to treat each other. The author begins by seeming to criticize those who aren’t pulling their weight. But no one is given permission to be rude or unkind. Instead those who need to rise to the occasion are to be encouraged with patience and understanding. Look for the best in each other, the author says. Tara Brach says the same in today’s reading: Recognizing human goodness – in ourselves and others – may be the most radical act we can take.
Respect naturally comes to those who show wisdom or compassion, those who follow the advice of our scripture in the way they treat each other. But what about our current situation when many leaders treat others without respect, making fun of those with disabilities, intentionally harming immigrants and minorities races, lying, cheating… How do we show respect to those folks? We follow the advice of scripture to weigh the behaviors against our standards and reject behaviors that are harmful to others. At the same time we respect the humanity of everyone. In a couple of weeks we’re going to talk about accountability, and that holds people responsible for bad behavior. We don’t give respect to the actions which harm others or break laws. In all cases, we respect the humanity of all people. Bad behavior needs to be gently corrected, with love and discipline, but the person doing the behaviors is to be respected as capable of good. Called to a higher standard and treated with hope that they are able to learn those better ways.
Respect asks us to listen to opinions we disagree with.
Respect asks us to honor freedom of speech and thought, even when we hope to persuade some to see another way, too.
Respect rejects racism, sexism, gender discrimination, economic belittling… and lifts up equality and justice.
Respect prevents anyone from harming another, and does so without harming those who need to do better.
Respect asks us to value all people, and when we find reasons to be critical, to do so kindly and with humility.
We live in a time when people are particularly polarized. It’s not the only time in history that’s been true, so we have hope that it’s not a permanent condition. One of the keys to learning how to hear each other and reach common ground is to begin with respect. To listen deeply, waiting to form a response until another person has been fully heard. To listen with an open mind. Maybe we won’t agree, but there may be some points of connection.
The effort we’re making to name values important to us is a step toward respect. When we can name our values, we can identify values people hold in common. When we can explain our values, we can invite others to consider why we find them important.
I wonder what respect means to you and where you have given and received respect yourself?