The Tribune

By Rev. Angela C. Bosfield Palacious

When we speak to young Christians, we tell them what we expect from them concerning their faith. We expect you to know that Jesus Christ is your Saviour and Lord, and to know right from wrong, and to set particular standards. We expect you to share the word of God, to quote Bible verses, to pray when asked, and to serve in the church in some way.

We then say to them that they can do even better, they can surpass these average expectations. We can challenge them to surpass such a middle of the road approach, reminding them to be such committed Christians that the power of God is visible as they influence their generation to Godliness. We can motivate them to consider peer pressure as offering a Godly example, an assertive witness, a strong challenge and convicting rebuke.

We can be their caring companions, encouraging them to stay in the Word, to be constant in prayer, crying out on behalf of the people of the nation, to surpass the average young person their age by being passionate, persevering and protective of the things of God. They may very well become the righteous remnant if it comes to only a small number of Bahamians obeying God.

When it comes to family, we all know that we are to honour our parents, and that from an early age, we are expected to make our beds, keep our rooms tidy, and assist with family duties. Every family member is expected to be a team player which means, as a junior member, following instructions, helping with younger siblings, and being kind and courteous.

This is a minimum standard that we require for all homes, just as we want indoor plumbing, electricity, and adequate shelter for everyone, so too we desire basic moral and spiritual requirements. We expect homes to be free from violence, abuse, incest, addictions and other dysfunctional behaviour. Where such behaviour is found, it is considered totally unacceptable.

Our lesson concerning excellence will need to be very direct when we declare: “You are to surpass these expectations.” You are to have reverence for God and respect for your parents or guardians, learning everything you can from their wisdom. You are to be the ones who volunteer to help at home, asking what more you can do because you know that the more discipline you practice now, the better you will run your own home.

You are going to be the married couples who pray, play and work together. You will be faithful best friends, and lovers who waited until married to have sex. Your home is going to be the magnet that draws others. You will agree to disagree without being disagreeable. There will be no cursing, domestic violence or pornography in your home. You will not be perfect but you will be perfect for one another, chosen for each other by God, apologizing when wrong, forgiving when hurt, and healing with help if necessary. These are just some ways to surpass our expectations as you grow in grace.