12/09/2021 – Invest time
In a recent church meeting, that turned into an improvisational testimony night, I got a front row seat, an uncensored, unrehearsed look into the lives of my fellow brothers. Hearing each one of them recount events in their lives, how God has changed them, how God has healed and protected them from danger, how God has placed a hunger in their hearts to learn and grow in their Christian walk. I quickly realized that; I may not truly know my brothers as I thought I did. Yes, I did have the usual after church service chat with my brothers, we’ll ask about each other’s welfare, families, and concerns, but it was only when I invested time to sit and listen to my brothers, I was made aware of their deep concerns and worries, dreams, aspirations, and prayer request. Part of our growing in the body of Christ, is investing our time with our brothers, to sit and listen to them, share a meal with them, but also to share your story with them as well.
Genesis 4:1-13. “… That’s when Cain asked, “Am I my brother’s keeper?”
As rude as Cain’s response was, what Cain was saying was, “My brother is not my problem.” Using myself as the example, I ask, “am I any different than Cain was?”. I am not saying I would ever dare reply rudely to God, but I would have to confess that my brothers’ concerns and welfare are not always center stage in my mind. But when I the invest time, then I see my brother’s condition.
Ask yourself the following:
- Is my brother hungry?
- Is my brother alone, missing his family overseas?
- Is my brother worried about a love one’s health diagnoses?
So, during this season of Thanksgiving and Christmas, invest time in your brothers and church family. Be your brother’s keeper.
Today meditate on this verse: John 13:34-35
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”