In the final chapter of John, we find a poignant exchange between Peter and the resurrected Christ. Thrice the Savior asks, "Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these?" Each time, as Peter affirms his love, Jesus responds, "Feed my lambs... Shepherd my sheep" (John 21:15-17). In today's world, there exists a profound need to nurture the souls of children and youth with the "living water" and the "bread of life." Similar to Peter, we too love the Lord. Thus, parents and leaders tirelessly work to instill a testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel in every heart.
Fostering Reverence and Respect
In the hustle of contemporary society, norms of decorum, dignity, and courtesy are besieged on all fronts. As parents and leaders, our examples of respect for others are paramount, for our youth not only observe the media but also scrutinize our conduct. Are we the exemplars we ought to be?
Let's introspect: Am I a model of respect at home? How do I behave during sports events? In disagreements involving my child, do I listen to all perspectives? Do I respect others' property and safeguard my own? How do I respond to those with differing views on religion, lifestyle, or politics? By setting the standard for respect, we affirm in our children's hearts that each is a child of God, fostering unity amidst diversity.
Reverence and Respect: Symbiotic Virtues
President David O. McKay defined reverence as "deep respect mixed with love," emphasizing the intertwining of reverence and love. Similarly, Elder L. Tom Perry taught that reverence is "an attitude of respect and veneration towards Deity." Children learn this through the Primary song, recognizing that reverence extends beyond stillness, embodying a feeling of love.
However, reverent behavior is not innate for most children; it's a quality parents and leaders instill through example and instruction. The process starts early, teaching a child to fold arms for prayer, gradually progressing to lessons of self-discipline. Parental patience and consistent teaching are crucial, recognizing that we're not just imparting the first lesson in reverence but also helping the child master early lessons in self-discipline.
Reverence Invites Revelation
President Boyd K. Packer's words, "Reverence invites revelation," resonate powerfully. We must create environments of reverence in our hearts, homes, and meetings, inviting the Spirit to console, guide, teach, and testify. As parents and leaders, what can we do?
We can exemplify reverence through humble prayer, using appropriate language, and showing due respect for the names of Deity. Handling scriptures with respect and teaching their doctrines with conviction further reinforces reverence. Additionally, extending respect not only to General Authorities but also to local priesthood and auxiliary leaders sets a standard of reverence and teaches the sacred nature of their responsibilities.
Leading by Example in Church Meetings
In our Church meetings, the chapel transforms into a place of worship on Sundays. Reverence is fostered by social interactions occurring in the halls, reserving the sacrament meeting for worship. Silence during the prelude, addressing a crying child in a separate room, and turning off electronic devices are actions that exemplify reverence and respect. Engaging in the meeting, listening to speakers, and singing hymns collectively reinforce a spirit of reverence.
Teaching Reverence in Classes
Teachers in Primary, Sunday School, and youth programs play a pivotal role in teaching and modeling respect and reverence. Loving each child, explaining the significance of reverence, preparing well, and addressing individual needs contribute to a conducive learning environment. Collaboration with parents, especially those with children with special needs, ensures reasonable expectations for all.
Conclusion: A Reverent Future
In conclusion, the promises made by President Packer regarding increased spiritual power and revelation through reverence are applicable today. Believing in the words of a prophet, acknowledging a loving Heavenly Father, and understanding Jesus Christ as our Savior should fuel the deep love reflected in increased reverence. May our efforts in nurturing reverence reflect our profound love for Them and enhance our ability to shepherd His flock. Amen.
FAQs
Ask, “How can you be reverent during the prayer?” Help them practice folding their arms, bowing their heads, and closing their eyes while you give the prayer. Remind the children that doing this helps us show Heavenly Father and Jesus that we love Them. Praise them for showing reverence.
Why is it important to practice reverence? ›
Studies have shown that the experience of reverence can positively affect our psychological well-being. increase feelings of awe and transcendence, provide greater life satisfaction and significantly reduce stress levels.
Why is respect and reverence important? ›
Reverence (for God) leads to respect (for people). The most important thing you can do for the people in your life—your family, your friends, your co-workers—is to treat them with respect. The reason we love is because we respect.
How can we express our reverence? ›
Ordinarily this is a genuflection on one knee or, if physically challenged, a deep bow. We show reverence during the celebration of the Mass by our attentive engagement in the sacrifice being offered and our active participation in it, both internally and externally.
What is reverence in everyday life? ›
Reverence brings us closer to other people and to the world around us. The reverent person notices and responds to the mystery of life and the sacredness of all things. Reverence is an attitude of dependence and humility, an appreciation of the splendor and beauty of all reality, and a longing for something greater.
How do we show reverence? ›
Be kind to others. Speak politely to teachers and leaders. Listen carefully during prayers, and fold your arms, bow your head, and close your eyes.
What are the qualities of reverence? ›
“Reverence has been defined as a 'feeling or attitude of deep respect, love, and awe, as for something sacred. ' To describe it as devotion to God is another way to express the meaning of reverence.
What are three synonyms for reverence? ›
reverence
- admiration.
- adoration.
- awe.
- deference.
- devotion.
- esteem.
- loyalty.
- piety.
Reverence is a feeling of deep respect or awe — like what you have for a president, a hero, or a favorite football player. Reverence can be a feeling of awe, and it can also describe how you treat someone, particularly when used with the word with. To treat someone "with reverence" is to show them intense respect.
What are acts of reverence? ›
1. : honor or respect felt or shown : deference. especially : profound adoring awed respect. 2. : a gesture of respect (such as a bow)
A gesture indicative of deep respect; an obeisance, bow, or curtsy. The state of being revered, or treated with respect tinged with awe.
What is the message of reverence? ›
Reverence involves a humbling of the self in respectful recognition of something perceived to be greater than the self. The word "reverence" is often used in relationship with religion. This is because religion often stimulates this emotion through recognition of a god, the supernatural, and the ineffable.
What's the difference between respect and reverence? ›
And it feels good to respect them, because respect is also an expression of faith. A positive. REVERENCE for a person is when you elevate someone to be so high that they are no longer human. They become so precious that you exclude any sense that they might be flawed.
What is reverence LDS? ›
Reverence is profound respect and love. A reverent attitude toward God includes honoring Him, expressing gratitude to Him, and obeying His commandments.
What are the three levels of reverence? ›
The 3 levels of reverence are: (1.1) Latria: This is the reverence and worship that we give to God alone. (1.2) Hyperdulia: Thie is the reverence that we give to Mary as the greatest of Saints and Mother of God. (1.3) Dulia: This is the reverence that we give to the Saints.
What activities show reverence to God? ›
We can have reverence for God even when we're not at church by showing respect for His creations. We can be kind to animals, help keep the earth clean, and thank Heavenly Father for the things we enjoy in nature. Remember that God's greatest creations are His sons and daughters—us!
What is reverence in Waldorf education? ›
In the context of the Waldorf approach Reverence is a feeling that we consciously cultivate and deeply touches the soul. It's a mood within the soul that develops through a sense of wonder gratitude and devotion. Why are Wonder, Gratitude and Devotion important to developing a reverent mood?
