Siblings

I have one brother and my brother has one sister, this brother/sister dynamic is not the same as brother/brother or sister/sister.

On both sides of the family we have that scenario, one with two boys and one two girls, within 2-3 years of one another. As our nephews and nieces have grown up, there have been times when they looked more like twins, with the younger one being the same height and size as their older sibling. The fact they often appear to be the same size and same age I think increases the comparison game. They are often pit against each other, comparing what one likes and doesn’t like or does or doesn’t do, sometimes fueling fierce competition. It can plant the seeds of resentment and hatred towards one another in the future if not handled in a way where their differences are celebrated and even encouraging their unique interests.

When I think of the parable of the prodigal son, I think there was certainly a bit of this brother/brother dynamic happening. These brothers are not the first two in the Bible to squabble (remember Cain and Able). However, regardless of how the brothers feel about one another, the lesson to walk away with is this…the Father’s love is the same for both of them.

I see it in the scripture and I see it in my nephews and nieces; regardless of the choices they make, mistakes or successes, the love their parents have for them is the same. They are not in competition for their parents love, they are loved equally and this is the way God loves His children too!