During the last twenty months or more, we have had to adapt or adjust to an entirely new paradigm. We have resorted to remaining in our homes more than ever due to the pandemic. I would imagine most of us have eaten more carry out food than we ever wished. As we would go to various restaurants or fast-food places, I began to observe and witness different behaviors at these eateries. It was a little daunting having to ask a waitress or waiter to respond with a “thank you” after purchasing our food. The question for me became, “Where are your manners?” Who does that? Blacks have always had manners even if we did not have a dime in our pockets.

Well, there is a flip side to all of the above. First, we cannot condemn everyone because of the behavior of a few. On this past Sunday and other times during the pandemic, public service individuals have shown nothing but utmost respect and appreciation for our business. There was something special about a young man I met on this past Sunday as I entered the restaurant to pick up our food. He was so accommodating that I became suspicious, but it quickly became evident that he had been taught well by some parent or grandparent. After entering the restaurant, there were some of the nicest and most respectful young ladies we could ever meet. I got the feeling they appreciated their jobs and wanted to give great service. You just never know how far a simple thank you, yes mam, yes sir, sorry, please, excuse me, yes or no will go. We never know who is watching and listening. The gestures of holding the door open for others, offering your seat to someone in need, not using the cell phone while in the company of others, etc. can have a very positive impact on others.    

A story in the Bible came to mind after having these experiences. Luke 17:11-19 reads as follows: “Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed.  One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him-and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”    

There are two points I would like to make regarding Luke 17: 11-19. (1) We are so often like the nine lepers who Jesus healed. They received what they wanted and what they needed, then went about their business. Too often God heals us, makes provisions for us, delivers us, saves us, etc., yet we so often like the nine either forget, and take God’s healing and goodness for granted or we just do not care. Somebody right now ought to be praising God for his healing power. (2) The one who returned was not the one who was expected to say thank you. As we know, the Jews and Samaritans despised each other and did not associate with each other, yet Jesus healed this man knowing he was a Samaritan. He loves us regardless of our race, creed or color. This is a lesson also on God’s grace and mercy. Sometimes it is the Christian who is expected to give God thanks and praises because of God’s goodness, but so often it is the unexpected who gives thanks. God does not require us to thank him, but he is pleased when we do.

When our manners are in check, they allow us to speak into the lives of others and others see and feel something unique and special about us. As Christians, we should be models for others so that they too may be attracted to Christ.

Having good manners helps us in creating good and lasting impressions. Let us continue as parents, family members and friends teach our children good manners. Manners simply shows others our character and a positive image to the world. With all due respect, the world is in a season of poor manners from top to bottom even in our government.

In closing, let us be persistent in being a model for others as it relates to manners. It is partially what we are in need of about right now.

Not a sermon, just my thoughts!

Robert Earl Slade, Pastor