How has it come to this?

A member of Parliament killed while holding a “surgery” to meet his constituents? A policeman found guilty of rape and murder, who caught his victim by using his warrant card?

I could add other things to my list.

A verse from the Book of Proverbs comes to mind, paraphrased by Martin Luther as “spare the rod and spoil the child”.

I am definitely not advocating physical violence, but suggesting that if we do not correct young people and adults who behave badly early on, behaviour is likely to get worse rather than better.

Ilford Recorder:

Another saying from the world of finance came to mind: “Look after the pence and the pounds will take care of themselves."

If we transfer that message to the issue of behaviour, it would be saying to us: “If you nip thoughtless and discourteous actions in the bud, you prevent them from developing into major problems."

The idea of “looking after number one”, may well encourage people to make the best of their opportunities, but it should not mean “doing what I want” with scant regard for others.

To follow Jesus Christ means putting self last and serving others first.