Scripture

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.

Reflection

Dearly beloved children, the church is my family and your family. You live in a world with no conception of genuine family relationships. You must learn to sincerely love one another.

Those who are older you must treat as you would your own mother and father. I tell you, my beloved, that you can learn this relational way of being from me for I am your father.

Let all your relationships be marked by my love, agape love. Those who are older deserve your respect.

There is no place for sexual exploitation in my family. Treat each other with all purity and do not ever treat my children as objects for lust or sexual sin. Whatever you do to the least of these you do to me.

Prayer

Lord, I bless your holy name. You are raising a household of royal priests for your glory. May your church recognise its holy calling. Amen