“Am I my brother’s keeper?” That was Cain’s sulky, defiant question flung at God immediately after he lied regarding Abel’s whereabouts.

Cain, a farmer, and his younger brother, Abel, a shepherd, both brought their offerings, but God did not respect Cain and rejected his fruit offering. He respected Abel and accepted the animal that he sacrificed. Overwhelmed by rage, Cain killed Abel. When God asked where his brother was, Cain replied that he did not know. Was it his job to take care of his brother?

That simple question reverberates today. Are our brothers and sisters any concern of ours? Like a thread woven into the tapestry of Scripture, we find a resounding “yes.” In the Old Testament, we see God’s provision for the poor and foreigners living among the Israelites (Leviticus 23:22). In the New Testament, we discover that caring for orphans and widows constitutes “pure, undefiled religion” (James 1:27).

America is a country applauded for its rugged individualism and fierce independence, but God still calls us to love our neighbors as we love ourselves, to unselfishly seek the best for others, to take on the responsibility of leading in love.

When we care for others, it changes us and them. It changes our community and our country. How do you answer this timely question?

Blessing
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. Like Jesus, may you become your brother’s keeper and demonstrate your love by laying down your life for others.

Today’s Bible Reading:
Old Testament
2 Chronicles 17:1-18:34

New Testament
Romans 9:25-10:12

Psalms & Proverbs Psalm 20:1-9Proverbs 20:2-3