WF Pride

Recognition and Respect of Others

Chad Cottingham

This past Saturday evening, a local company in Kalamazoo held a huge dinner and celebration for family and friends. The owners walked around greeting, talking and socializing all evening. This was their way to recognize and thank the nearly 150 people that have meant so much to them over the years. It was a great time and my wife and I were blessed just to be a part of it.

Award Ceremonies recognizing people’s accomplishments are pretty common this time of year. Just last week, the CMA (Country Music Awards) was on TV celebrating the best in country music. There are many more of these in the days and weeks ahead. These celebrations are recognizing huge accomplishments and feats, shining the light on those deserving it.

How do we shine the light on those around us? How do are we recognizing our colleagues, friends and family for the ‘little’ things they do each and every day to make our lives better. How are you taking time to reach out to them and give them such respect? People don’t have to win an Academy Award, or sing a #1 hit song to be recognized by others. A simple ‘thank-you’ or ‘I appreciate your hard work’ or ‘I really like when you…’ makes a big impact. By recognizing others we are demonstrating respect for them as people. We are showing value to who and what they are.

The bible tells us how much God loves and cares for us. God knows each of us by name and wants a personal relationship with each of us. God and his angels recognize and celebrate when we’ve come to Him. Luke 15:10 states: “In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels when even one sinner repents.” ~ NLT

“Dear Lord and Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your son Jesus to take our place on the cross. Thank you for loving us so much that you want each of us to spend eternity with you. Thank you for celebrating when just one of us comes to Your saving grace. It’s in Jesus name we pray, Amen.”