DCL Ministries enjoys teaming up with Putting On The New, online Christian magazine, to encourage us all on our walk in this world. So neat how these women share their pain, tears, and joy while serving the Lord. Remember, theological principles are one thing, but “how” we apply God’s truth to our everyday lives is another story. To learn more about , creator, and Mixed Media artist Cherie Burbach, and these amazing women’s stories, click here.

Am I my Brother’s Keeper?

“Now Cain said to his brother Abel, “Let’s go out to the fields. And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel and killed him. Then the Lord said to Cain, “Where is your brother Abel?” ” I don’t know,” he replied. ” Am I my brother’s keeper?” ( Genesis 4:8 & 9).

As I went for a much needed brisk walk this morning I took in the wet, foggy morning air while around the track, close to where I live. I don’t know about you, but when I walk I talk, and pray to the Lord. Suddenly answers come ( or don’t ) as I give Him my version of the truth as I understand it. It has been awhile since I’ve been able to go walking. The winter has left me cold, and lazy. So, I seek any opportunity to get out, and clear my mind… as they say. As I walked, God brought to mind this text, because I often wonder about all the benefits believer’s have when we are in union with Christ. As one knows ( or can imagine) the Christian journey can be most challenging, therefore knowing the benefit’s really helps. However, in this text we see that the favor of God doesn’t automatically bring the favor of men. In this text, what we do see are brother’s( family) not loving each other. Sadly, what we do see are brother’s in discord. It is amazing how our sinful nature, when threatened, can respond just like Cain did. In times of confusion, hurt, rejection, and pain we can push away and even hurt those we love rather then embracing,encouraging, and learning from them.

I saw through this text when humanity is in Christ, humanity IS the object and subject of God’s love. And, in that same agape love we are to love and embrace one another. God’s Salvation can touch us all as a whole or dig into the daily ups and downs of our lives, the bitter and sweet moments and move us subjectively, many times producing an “aha” moment.  As believer’s we’re apart of a new race, a new family, a corporation choosing to submit to the process while becoming apart of what God is trying to do in the heart of mankind. We’re united not by color, age, pedigree, or socioeconomic background, BUT by the belief in what Jesus Christ has done on the cross when dying in our place –for our sin’s. It’s in this understanding, God revealed that He is looking for those willing to answer differently than Cain. Not an obligatory response, but one filled with love for their fellowman (or woman). God hopes someday we all can say, ” I am my brother’s keeper!” Meaning, I am willing to find them when they are lost and bring them back to life rather than take their life. One who will choose to persevere, even if the situation doesn’t benefit them personally. Why? Because the object is to unite with our neighbor while be in love with Him. Praise God, for that is a beautiful benefit when giving your life to Him.  In Him, we are apart of a new creation, a new way of thinking, feeling, living  and seeing. In Jesus name , Amen.

DCL Ministries