Leviticus 19:32 (Contemporary English Version)
“Show respect for older people and honor them. I am the Lord.”
Historical background
These words come from the laws God gave to the people of Israël, in a time when society was strongly centered on community and family. Older people had an important role. They passed on wisdom, experience, and tradition. In a world without books, internet, or fast communication, they were the living sources of knowledge. Respect for the elderly was therefore not just politeness, but essential for the survival of the community. At the same time, God directly connects this respect to reverence for Himself. It shows that how we treat people says something about how we see God.
What does this mean today?
When we read this, it makes me think about how fast our society has become. Everything revolves around innovation, speed, and youth. Old age is sometimes seen as something to avoid. But this text turns that perspective around. It is really saying: slow down, look carefully, and appreciate what is already there.
In the church, you sometimes see beautiful examples. Older people who have been faithful for many years, who have prayed, who have endured difficult times. Their stories carry faith. But it also happens that they feel unseen, as if their time has passed. This text speaks directly against that.
In daily life
Maybe you know someone in your family or neighborhood who is older and becoming quieter. Someone who has experienced much, but is asked very little anymore. A simple conversation, a listening ear, can already make a world of difference.
In society, you see the same thing. Older people are sometimes excluded, for example by fast-moving digital developments. Yet they have something that cannot be replaced: life experience. Think of a grandfather telling stories about the past, or an older woman in church giving wise advice. These are not small things, they are of great value.
Learning to see with different eyes
Respect begins with attention. Not just greeting politely, but truly seeing someone. It requires that you do not place yourself at the center, but make space for the other. And in that, there is something beautiful: you discover that you also grow by listening.
Final thought
“Show respect for older people and honor them. I am the Lord.” – Leviticus 19:32 (CEV)
Maybe that is the heart of it: respect for people is connected to respect for God. How you look at the older person next to you says something about your heart. And perhaps right there, you discover a piece of wisdom that helps you further in life.