September 1, 202

     “I wish there was a way to know you were in the good old days before you’ve actually left them” Andy Bernard. If you are old enough to remember the good old days, you might be a little older than me. If on the other hand you wonder what was good about no Tik-Toc and no door dash you might be a little younger than me. We are living in a world where many things have changed. You used to argue with your neighbours, now you can argue with people in different countries. People used to call to catch up. Now they just stalk each other online. Changes in the world have brought many challenges, they have also brought many opportunities. We all sometimes struggle to navigate change. We all know one thing for sure: the people who are older than us are idiots who messed up the world. Also, the people who are younger than us are idiots who are messing up the world. 

     You might think that this is a unique phenomenon facilitated by internet culture and social media. There was once a wise king in Israel, he achieved a great deal in service to God and his people. While he was far from perfect, Solomon could hardly be said to be a fool. However, as we look at the events of 2 Chronicles 10, following the death of Solomon, we find his son Rehoboam stepping into his father’s rather large boots. Rehoboam gathers all of Israel including the popular Jeroboam. Israel brought a message for the new king. We need some relief. Solomon’s requirements of the people were difficult. If you reduce taxes and service expectations, we will serve you. The people saw an opportunity to make their lives better under the new leadership especially during the period of transition. 

Rehoboam asked his father’s advisors (the old guard) for advice. They recommended that Rehoboam give the people what they had asked for. Perhaps this was not the answer Rehoboam was looking for, perhaps he was offended by the implication that he lacked the strength of his father? For these reasons and maybe others he didn’t accept the advice, instead asked his friends who he had grown up with. They were of a very different opinion. They said “Okay Boomer, me and my homies think that’s cap, I’m way more goated than the old guy.” (If you’re struggling to understand that sentence just ask a nine year old.) 

     Generational differences have been around as long as there have been generations. Rehoboam listened to his contemporaries and we all know the rest of the story. Israel under Jeroboam rebelled and the nation was split into Israel in the North and Judah in the south. Previously in 1 Chron. 12:32 we are told that when David was king he has “Men of Issachar, men who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do.” Rehoboam had those men too, and frankly he should have read the situation much better than he did, but pride and self-enrichment blinded him. When it comes to generational conflict the fact is, there is much blame to spread around. The fact is life is difficult. God said that it would be, because we are living in a fallen world. Most people are doing their best to make their way in whatever circumstance they are in. Younger people will do well to heed the wisdom that comes with the experience of years. Older people will do well to remember that they need to teach and develop not just command and expect adherence. Remember that a harsh approach is likely to alienate. Listening to people’s needs and taking them seriously is important for both young and old especially young and old trying to serve together in congregations. 

~ Kevin Cleary