Children’s Institute Series PART 3: RESPONSIBILITY (Inspired by the IBLP Children’s Institute Curriculum)

      We all have responsibilities. But not all of us take them seriously. In fact, we sometimes do not take responsibility for the things we should be responsible for. When something undesirable happens, we’re quick to point a finger or say “It’s not my fault.” I am often guilty of that. Of course, sometimes it’s true that it’s not our fault. But would we be willing to take responsibility when it is? Going even further, would we be willing to take responsibility for something, even when it’s not our fault, when not doing so would cause further damage?

      I am reminded of a particular scene in the TV show “Horatio Hornblower: The Duchess and the Devil,” in which Captain Hornblower of the English navy and his crew were imprisoned by the French. Some of his crew members were anxious to escape, and so, without Horatio’s permission, they tricked the French guards into opening the prison door and attempted to escape, with their captain forced to join them. It was a brash attempt, and it ultimately ended in failure. They were recaptured, and the French commander interrogated the crew, asking who was responsible for the attempted escape. Horatio Hornblower immediately said, “I am, sir.” The commander was not willing to believe him, knowing that Horatio was too smart for such a brash undertaking that was bound to fail. He asked again, “Who is responsible?” And one of Horatio’s trusted crewmates whispered, “Tell him, Horatio.” And yet, the Captain gave the same answer: “I am, sir.” As a result, he was put into a dark hole in the ground that served as a worse prison than before. Horatio Hornblower, because he was the captain of his crew, took the responsibility for their actions. I am inspired by the leadership and character he displayed.

      Most of us have heard the famous phrase “With great power comes great responsibility.” Though this is true, what we often see in reality is: “With great power comes great IRRESPONSIBILITY.” We may not want to accept the blame for faults because it might negatively affect our position or reputation. Do you think Captain Hornblower would have given the same reply if his officers were the interrogators? Judging by his noble character, I should think so, and that suggests that he was willing to risk a possible demotion for such reckless actions. He was taking on the blame because he was the face of his crew. And so it comes back to us. What answer would we give if we find ourselves in that situation?

      A possible question to bring up at this point would be: wasn’t Horatio lying in the act of taking the blame upon himself unjustly, and aren’t we supposed to tell the truth? Well, if we look at the situation at face value, yes, it would be lying. But looking at Horatio’s position from another perspective, he may actually have a small part in the fault. He was the Captain. The crew reflects the Captain. If you have a good crew, point to the Captain. If you have a bad crew, again point to the Captain. True, Horatio didn’t have control over this particular action of his men, but his position as Captain demands a responsibility that he recognizes.

      I’m learning to take my responsibilities seriously and be true to them, and I believe that God will help me do so. And may God do the same for all of you.

Blessings,
Nathanael