Family Resemblance

Two weeks ago Mary and I were in Orlando for an event. In this case it was a seminar where I had no active role in preparation or execution. Instead, this was a gathering where my brother, Robert, was the emcee. This is a function that he’s performed for years for this group. Consequently, many people know Robert.

In this context I met many people. It wasn’t unusual for individuals that I had just met to declare my apparent familiarity to them… simply because I reminded them of my brother, Robert. I suppose it was a combination of looks, vocal tones, and maybe even mannerisms. “I see the family resemblance” became more of the norm than the exception.

Robert is my brother so, of course, this is possible, and logical, and appropriate, and thankfully, welcome.

Even as I type the words above I am drawn to ask a penetrating and important series of questions… about another brother of mine, about Jesus.

But he replied to the man who told him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”  (Matthew 12:48-50)

And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.”  (Matthew 25:40)

For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers, saying, “I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise.”  (Hebrews 2:11-12)

The theme of family radiates through our life in Christ. We’ve become family and this reality should produce a resemblance that brings joy to my Father and honor and respect to my brother. This resemblance has nothing to do with growing a beard or the purchase of leather sandals.

The power of Jesus’ redemptive message is that I can take on His qualities of life and living. He restores me to fullness of life and that includes the embrace of characteristics that match His.

Love without selfishness.
Integrity without compromise.
Compassion without restraint.
Power without ego.
Generosity without foolishness.
Relationships without politics.

Jesus, our brother, is the King. And the King is our brother.

I am constrained to believe that this should inform every interaction, every conversation, every thought, every gift, every silent moment, everything.

While I’m in the pew, or on my bike, or at the checkout counter at Target. It should change the interaction with the gate agent who has informed me of a delayed flight. It should shift and move and impact everything.

Jesus. My King. My brother.

Family resemblance?

I pray for nothing less.