DAILY READING
REFLECTION
ALL MY BROTHERS & SISTERS
by Jennifer Jerrome
To the question, “Do you have any siblings?” My reply would be, “I have one brother and two sisters.” But that answer isn’t accurate. I am a child of God so I have many brothers and sisters. I am part of a larger family with Christ as my brother.
Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters (Hebrews 2:11).
For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters (Romans 8:29).
Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory (Romans 8:17).
While our inheritance includes everlasting life, we don’t have to wait for death to receive our Father’s riches. We can experience his goodness and mercy here on Earth. We do this through the Spirit God sent to dwell in us.
Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.” So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir (Galatians 4:6-7).
When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession (Ephesians 1:13-14).
The number of references to believers as children of God and brothers in Christ is abundant, which shows just how important this message is.
So, when someone asks if you have any siblings, you may be inclined to include only biological brothers and sisters, but don’t forget your larger family in Christ. It is through this family that you will receive the ultimate inheritance.
PRAYER
Father,
Thank you for sending Christ to be my brother. I am proud to be part of your family and look forward to the day I am welcomed into your Kingdom by all the brothers and sisters who have gone before me. Amen
