To be held in high esteem by those who are flesh and blood, seems like it would be done without question. And yet, there are circumstances around some family situations that bring a hesitation. This command is given in spite of what may have occurred at some time in the past. It is an admonition that had to be made because of the clash of generations that seem inevitable. Am I to honor parents who are not as well educated as their children? Yes – they have learned in other ways. Am I to honor parents who are poor and I am well-off? Yes – the amount of money people have does not earn honor.
Honor is the right of those who have children. We may not always agree, but we are always to honor our parents. Even when time removes some of the close connections we have had in the past, honor is still to be given. The opinions of the older generation don’t move as far forward as that of the younger, but we are still to give them honor. The older folks will be uncomfortable with much of what you do and may even challenge and complain, but honor is still their right.
