R-E-S-P-E-C-T spells respect. So what does respect have to do with our journey along the Way?
The dictionary defines respect: "the condition of being esteemed or honored"
Respect is about honor. It is a mindset, which in turn shapes behavior.
A few weeks ago I heard the song "Girl in a Country Song" by Maddie & Tae. The song highlights the lack of respect women receive in too many country songs, and demands a return to times when such respect was more freely given by men like Conway Twitty and George Strait.
Respect disappears when we begin to see persons as objects rather than people created in God's image with inherent value and unique dignity. If we allow this mindset to be present in our culture and society, then we should not be surprised when there are issues of abuse, use, and maltreatment of women along with the prevalence of human sex trafficking.
It all begins with our minds. If we perceive people as objects, then we can do whatever we want with them and to them.
So as followers of Jesus, we should offer respect to every person we encounter along the Way, whether or not they agree with us, or even share our faith. Respect is the beginning point for true relationships, it is a mindset, and it is the first step toward rebuilding community.
So I am curious, what do you think? Do you believe a person's mindset can affect his or her behavior? What do you think about respect? I invite you to share your thoughts, as we journey together along the Way ...
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