As I have mentioned before, I take Taekwondo classes a few nights a week.
One of the principles that is emphasized the most in class is respect. At least once a week, the instructor will sit everyone down and talk about respect. Often he will point out that a person who practices Taekwondo is special and should exhibit high moral behavior, especially with regard to respect. Essentially he is saying, "You have these skills, and with that comes an identity with Taekwondo and a responsibility to act a certain way.
In fact, respect is far more important than a high skill level. Simply being able to perform the moves does not mean you represent Taekwondo.
I can see this identity reflected in the young people who take the class. They are kinder and more respectful. The higher the rank, the more you see it.
How much more should we see this in the children of God?
We are a special people, with a special responsibility to behave in a loving and respectful way toward everyone. It has been said before, "You may be the only 'Jesus' someone sees."
Peter tells us,
"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy." 1 Peter 2:9-10 (NIV)
Let's be sure to live up to what is expected of us.
