Be Devoted in Brotherly Love

I realized while I was reflecting on what to write in my family
Christmas letter this past year that I was moved in ways I
hadn’t identified about the terrorist attacks on 9/11. I have prayed about and thought about the powerful idea of world peace and peace in countries that are continually at odds with themselves and with other countries.

I have tried to figure out what I could do to help: raise money, give money, get involved with organizations that help, join the presidential prayer team and/or do a good deed in honor/memory of one of the victims in the World Trade Center or Pentagon. I think all of these ideas can help and are being done by many, but I was struck with the realization that I could be more devoted in brotherly love to my family, friends and neighbors.

What can I do? I can honor the people in my everyday life. In my mind, I treat my children, husband and friends with unrestrained love and care, but when reality hits — tired, homework issues, tight schedules — I quickly “forget” to put the Bible’s kind of love first in my actions. I will continue to pray for world peace and to search for a way to help it, but I am going to daily strive for world peace in the place I live — my home and community of friends.
I will use God’s love for us as the model for how I will love others.

— Joan Fletcher