The Fourth Commandment Chapter 20

Wisdom of Years Sirach 3:1-16: What surprises you most about this passage in Sacred Scripture? Sometimes it is hard for us to see the relevance of what our parents have to say in our lives Unlike God, our parents are not perfect. Nevertheless, we owe them respect simply because they are our parents. What are some ways we honor our parents?

Honor Your Father and Mother God calls us to know, love, and serve Him in the first three commandments. He calls us to love our neighbors in the last seven. It is appropriate that the “first” of the other- oriented commandments requires us to honor our “first” neighbors

4th Commandment Parents have the responsibility to develop spiritual, moral, intellectual, and physical gifts in their children, rearing them in the Faith Parents are to be obeyed and respected Parents give their lives to their children– making sure family life is stable and safe. Children respond with honor, obedience, love, just assistance, and respect.

4th Commandment Children should obey their parents for their own welfare. Parents have a better understanding of how the world works. Well-ordered homes help the entire community Failure to keep the 4th Commandment damages family and the community, as well.

What about extended family? Family bonds extend beyond parents and children. At one time, homes would house parents, grandparents, single aunts and uncles. Christ demands that we make the needs of family members a top priority, especially elderly or disabled parents/grandparents. The care, love, and support in these situations often bring out the best in a family and makes Christ known through selfless service.

The OT and the 4th Commandment God promises many blessings for those who love, serve, and respect their parents. This is the only Commandment with a promise. A matter of justice: Children are indebted to their parents, therefore, they MUST honor them.

Christ and the 4th Commandment Christ was obedient to his parents. He lived his life on earth as part of a family. The Holy Family is the exemplar and model for all Catholic families. Until his public ministry began, their lives were fairly normal. They are an example because of their reliance on God’s will.

Two Parents are Better than One The permanence of marriage has tremendous importance for the emotional, spiritual, and psychological health of children. The faithful love , commitment, and dedication between spouses mirrors God’s love for each person. Confusion can result from divorce and separation- this often leads to rebellion, resentment, or other concerns through the child’s adult life.

Two Parents are Better than One Healthy spousal relationships encourage respect and devotion from the children. Parent-Child relationships have reciprocal obligations The first school of faith, the domestic church, etc.

Parents’ Obligations Lead us in our pursuit of our life’s goal-Heaven Father: Love and protect family Mother: Counsel in family decision-making Educate children in faith Respect and encourage children’s vocations Model ideal behavior, “tough love”

Children’s Obligations Love, respect, thank, and assist parents Obey the requests of parents Older children must model behavior for younger children Leaving home does not free children from obligation to consider parents’ advice or care for them when they are ageing. Family: the people closest to us

Individual and Society Obligation of Society to Individual Protect the basic rights of each person Freedom to establish a family Protection of marriage Freedom to profess one’s faith Right to private property Protection of security and health Freedom to associate with other families

Individual to Society Contribute to society in a spirit of truth, justice, solidarity, and freedom Pursue the common good Submit to legitimate authority: taxes, voting, military service Citizens can not obey laws that violate God’s law