Etiquette: A Forgotten Behavior

Today’s Thought Etiquette; A Forgotten Behavior G. Ward

When he noticed how the guests picked the places of honor at the table, he

told them this parable:  “When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not

take the place of honor, for a person more distinguished than you may have been

invited. If so, the host who invited both of you will come and say to you, ‘Give

this man your seat.’ Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least important

place.” Luke 14:7-9

I’ve been criticized (primarily from my clergy friends) for having an open door policy concerning my approach to ministry. There are two factors that reign supreme in my contemplations with this behavior; 1. Our Great Savior makes Himself available to man (indiscriminately so) without reservation, but lovingly. 2. Pastors now and in times past forget their role as servants of His, forever counting the benefits vs. assessing the potential abuses and counting it a privilege in view of the Savior’s sacrifice.

There is however an earnest expectation of others existent from those of us who maintain a professionalism in this calling to fulfill. As physicians, attorneys and clinicians (psychological, social or governmental) have priorities to regard within a day’s structure, so it is in the lives of one’s local clergyman. Can you say with me, “Make an appointment?” When our approach to some who share the same vocation exacts partiality vs. similar respectability, we operate in the antithesis of Holy God’s word, forsaking blessings from on High. “The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching” (1 Ti.5:17).

“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you” (Heb.13:17). Remember, make an appointment! Happy Tuesday!