This isn’t just a question; it’s a life-changing call. It’s an invitation to reflect on how we live and to follow the example of the greatest keeper of all—Jesus Christ.
In Genesis 4:9, God asked Cain, “Where is your brother Abel?” Cain’s cold reply was, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” He was rejecting responsibility, even after committing the unthinkable act of taking his brother’s life. But God’s Word teaches us the opposite. We are called to care for others, to love them deeply, and to support each other (Galatians 6:2).
So let me ask you again: Are you your brother or sister’s keeper?
When was the last time you reached out to someone who needed encouragement? When was the last time you listened—really listened—to someone in pain without interrupting or trying to solve their problems? Have you let busyness, pride, or even indifference stop you from showing love to the people God has placed in your life?
I’ll be honest with you—this question has challenged me deeply.
Before my brother’s life was tragically cut short, we had talked about reconnecting and making up for lost time. But that time never came. When I saw him lying in that casket, the regret hit me hard. None of us are promised tomorrow. We only have today—this moment—to make things right.
Is there someone in your life you’ve been avoiding because of pride, bitterness, or unresolved conflict? Maybe you’re waiting for them to make the first move. If that’s you, stop and pray. Ask God to help you. Whatever it is, it can be healed. Jesus came to reconcile us to God and to one another. Who are we to withhold forgiveness and grace when He has freely given it to us?
Jesus is our ultimate example. He didn’t just talk about love—He lived it. He came to serve, to heal, and to save us while we were still lost, broken, and far from Him (Romans 5:8). Even as He hung on the cross, He prayed for the very people who mocked and crucified Him: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). That is love in its purest form—sacrificial, unconditional, and redemptive.
For those of you reading this who may not yet follow Christ, let me tell you this: Jesus lived the life we could never live—a life of perfect love and obedience—and then He died the death we deserved so that we could be free. He didn’t come to condemn you but to save you. He sees your struggles, your questions, and your pain, and He invites you to bring it all to Him.
In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus says: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
You don’t have to face life’s challenges on your own. Jesus is calling you to trust Him and let Him transform your heart.
For those who already follow Him, ask yourself: Does your life reflect His love? Are you actively caring for others, or have you allowed distractions to silence your compassion?
Take this challenge: Think of someone you’ve been avoiding, someone who needs your forgiveness or encouragement. Maybe it’s a family member, a friend, or even a stranger. Pray for them and reach out. You might think you’re helping them, but God could use that moment to change you.
Last night, I texted a family member I hadn’t spoken to in years. I asked for forgiveness for not being present in their life. They responded with unexpected grace: “There’s no need for forgiveness. Let’s not live in the past. Let’s live in the now.” In that moment, I realized something profound—I thought I was offering help, but in reality, she was the one setting me free.
The Bible reminds us in 1 John 4:20: “Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.”
God created us for relationships—with Him and with each other. But we cannot truly love others without first receiving His love. If you’ve never made the decision to follow Christ, let today be the day. He’s waiting for you with open arms.
For those of us who already know Him, let’s live as He lived. Let’s be the hands and feet of Jesus, showing love to the broken, the hurting, and the forgotten. Let’s remember that this life is not about us but about glorifying God and reflecting His love to the world.
The world desperately needs light. And Jesus said in Matthew 5:14, “You are the light of the world.” Will you let His light shine through you? Will you step out in faith and become your brother or sister’s keeper?
Say this prayer with me:
Lord Jesus, thank You for loving me even when I was far from You. I confess that I’ve fallen short in showing love to others. Forgive me, Lord, and fill me with Your love and compassion. Help me to follow Your example, to reach out to those in need, and to forgive those who have hurt me. I surrender my life to You. Teach me to walk in Your ways and to be a light in this dark world. Thank You for Your sacrifice, for Your grace, and for the hope You give.
