I’m old enough to remember report cards filled out by hand. On the back where non-academic marks like “Plays well with others” and “Neatness.” On in particular stands out in my memory: “Respect for authority.”
I often wonder how my Master, the Lord Jesus, would grade me on that area of my life. You see, one word translated “lord” in Greek means “one with authority over others.” In coming to Jesus as Lord and asking Him to save me, I acknowledged His rightful authority to rule/control very part of my life.
Respect for Jesus means submission and obedience to Jesus. Remember him asking, “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46) I hear Him asking me that sometimes. What about you, Friend?
Hmmm…I just read the back of my spiritual report card. Under “Respect for authority” is says, “Needs improvement.” I think I’ll stay after school and spend some more time with the Teacher.