“Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, and honor the emperor.” — 1 Peter 2:17
Respect for All
In 1998, batting practice was just underway at Turner Field as I waited in anticipation for a homer to come my way. We had temporarily set up on the first row in left field so I could get a good look at the big leaguers snagging fly balls and playing catch.
Even though this was an ordinary day for the Braves’ catcher, Eddie Perez, it was no ordinary day for me. This was my first time seeing the team I loved so much live and in person. Fans around me screamed, “Eddie, throw me a ball!” “Hey No. 12, give me a baseball man!”
My dad whispered down to me, “Call him Mr. Perez to get his attention. That will show him more respect than the others around us.” Nervously, I called out, “Mr. Perez, can you please throw me a baseball?” With a smile and a nod, he turned around and threw me the ball he’d been playing catch with. At 8 years old, I felt like I’d won the World Series when that ball safely landed in my Rawlings baseball glove. I’ll never forget that moment.
God’s call to stand out and respect others is no different. We are given the opportunity to honor God in this way every single day of our lives. Peter tells us this call to respect others applies to everyone AND the family of believers. Can you think of a better way to shine the light of Jesus than to respect the people you may not agree with? In addition, what a great way to build up the body of Christ!
Use this practical way to honor our Heavenly Father and show a high level of respect to EVERYONE today!
— Ryan Noelte
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