Brothers and Sisters

As a family we had wonderful outings on our bicycles, at a time when there were few cars on the road. My brother John was the eldest and so he liked to be out in front. We still laugh at the time when we thought he must have reached our destination; we saw him, head down, cycling towards us, oblivious of the fact that he had come full circle round a roundabout by mistake.

But there were other times when I would be struggling uphill when, from behind, a strong hand was planted in the middle of my back and I felt myself pushed upwards. My brother had willingly given up his lead to come back and help his little sister.

As I have recently joined with my family in thanksgiving for my brother’s well-lived life, I have thought how important it is that we love and care for one another. The great apostle Paul was encouraged by those who stood at the roadside to support him as he was led as a prisoner toward Rome, and David, who would become a mighty king, was strengthened by the help and friendship of Jonathan. As my brother helped me, we can help our Christian brothers and sisters when they are struggling.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for those who help us on our journey; help us to do the same for others. Amen