I watch my granddaughter as she watches her older brother. She not only watches what he does but she copies what he does! Her big brother is her example of how to live. He is also protective of her. Throughout the ages little sisters and brothers have learned from big sisters and brothers and have been protected by them. Sure, they get into fights, but overall the set-up seems to work well.
I find it interesting that Jesus is given over a hundred titles in the Bible including rock, bread, light, and shepherd, and that one of His lesser known titles He gave Himself is brother. He wants to consider us his little brothers and sisters and Himself as our big brother. Amazing!
I was a big brother to both a sister and a brother so I think I know something of what’s involved in the job description, though I didn’t fulfill my duties perfectly (don’t bother asking Mark or Rhonda, I’ll confess this up front). When I think about what an ideal big brother should be like (and Jesus certainly is ideal) I think of someone who not only is an example to his younger siblings but is also a big help to his younger brothers and sisters.
It’s a wonderful teaching of Jesus that He wants to consider us His brothers and sisters. What a helpful way to look at Jesus! And He says that this big brother relationship with Him is available to anyone who wants to be a little sister or brother to Him. Big Brother may be a lesser known title for Jesus but I find it to be a very helpful one!
“‘Who are my mother and my brothers?’ he [Jesus] asked. Then he looked at those seated in a circle around him and said, ‘Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.’” (Mark 3:33-35)
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