The Motorcade

Nº 200

weekly devotions to refresh your soul by Dr. Dan Bolin - May 31, 2022

We have been so immeasurably honored in mercy that not to prefer to honor as we have been honored is to betray that we have not tasted the treasure of our salvation. - John Piper

My rearview mirror showed the Washington, D.C. freeway filled with flashing lights closing in fast. Dutifully, I pulled to the shoulder. The passing lights and sirens accompanied a cluster of motorcycle police, which were closely followed by multiple police cars, several big black SUVs, and a trailing ambulance. The final wave included more police cars and motorcycles. The commotion raced past, and the traffic flow resumed.

A thundering motorcade generally signals the movement of either the president, the vice-president, or a visiting head of state – someone with more status than the rest of us plebeians.

Peter issued four staccato commands: “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” (I Peter 2:17) Oddly, the first command encompasses the last; honoring everyone includes honoring the ruler. Apparently, Peter realized that some challenges are more difficult and require special emphasis. Not everyone is easy to honor.

We may not always agree with those in authority; in fact, we will probably disagree sharply on some important issues. But we are never free to dishonor anyone, especially those who ride in motorcades. The two middle commands hold the key. When we love others and fear God, we will honor all – even those with whom we disagree.

Dan Bolin President Refueling in Flight Ministries, Inc