Daily Devotional, Aug 22, 2023 Giving your blessing
“All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace.”
ISAIAH 54:13
Pagmamano, or kissing the hand of an elder is a Filipino trait that shows how we value and respect our parents, grandparents, relatives, priests, and generally older people. For most it is a sign of greeting, upon meeting after a long day or a long while.
In the time of Jesus, children went to Him to ask for His blessings, and He happily obliges. He even told His disciples that children should never be discouraged to come to Him: “Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14).
More than a greeting and a sign of respect, I guess pagmamano should be seen as a challenge and reminder for us elders to try our best to be like Jesus. In his letter to the Ephesians, St. Paul urged everyone to emulate Christ, “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (Ephesians 5:1-2)
We should reflect His light on the young people who are asking for our blessing. Our kids, and other children in our life should see Jesus’ gentleness, generosity, care, and lovingkindness in us so that they too can be inspired to follow Jesus.
Let us be deserving of the respect being given to us, and be good examples to our children.
Before I end, allow me to share with you these passages that I recite to bless my kids. It is found in the Book of Numbers, I think you can also pray this prayer to your godchildren. Our Parish Priest encourages parents, especially fathers to say this prayer to their children, especially during the New Year:
“The Lord bless you and keep you;the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you;the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.”’
Numbers 6:24-26.
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to read Ephesians 4:1-7 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: Can your children and the other children in your life see Christ in you?
Conversation with the Lord: Dear Lord, I praise and thank you for making me a parent. I pray that you help me become worthy of the respect and admiration of my children, by having the will and confidence to follow your example. I want them to see your love reflected in my actions towards them. Amen.