PASSING ON THE BATON, NO. 15 - AVOID FAVORITISM

Men, in order to pass the baton on to the next generation we must not show favoritism (respect of persons). In other words, we have an equal responsibility to all our children. Favors we do for one we must do for all.

It is not a good thing for a child to grow up believing that others in the family are more special to their parents than they are. The apostle John, who leaned on Jesus' breast at the Last Supper refers to himself four times as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (John 13:23, 25; 26:2; and 21:20). He appears to have a special place in his relationship with Jesus. Some children, by virtue of their own personality, can also, like the apostle John, endear themselves to their parents more than other members of the family. This is not wrong.

However, wise parents will be careful not to create jealousy within their family by showing more favoritism to one more than the others. Favoritism can be manifested by disciplining others harsher than the most endearing one, by buying gifts for one more than others, or by showing more interest openly to one than the others.

As parents we must avoid as much as possible to cause offences or give any sense of rejection to any one of our children. All our children must know that we are not a respecter of persons, especially when it comes to judgment. All our children must know that they are equally loved.

Be encouraged.

Colin Campbell