My Big Sister

I am the second child in the marital relationship of my father and mother. They reared three children, one daughter and two sons. Their firstborn together was the daughter and today she celebrates her birthday. Another year on the planet for my big sister, Ruth Dryden.

There was a time when I resented my sister. I wondered why did she get favourable treatment and why did she get to boss me around. I wasn’t thrilled at the fact that she was alright – even when I was. Neither was I overjoyed at her overall superiority, even when I was ahead of her. Thankfully, though, I grew up and saw the truth. Namely that my sister as the oldest carried tremendous responsibility and would do things on behalf of her family that I wouldn’t dream of because her commitment to family. In looking after her younger sibling, Ruth was being a support and resource in difficult times. When my parents appeared to be unapproachable, my sister could be the counsel and mediator.

As the years roll by and the dynamic changes, as marriages and children add their own distinct impression on our lives the commitment from my sister actually strengthens. Like her father, she is a hugely generous and sacrificial servant seeking no praise or fame, but simply the opportunity to serve well. To those who know, they know that once she is on your side a fleet of wild horses won’t budge her from your side and her eyes will always look to bless you with opportunities as they emerge.

She remains true as a friend even when it calls for the truth that hurts. She will apply it without soft soaping it, but remain stedfast for the sake of the relationship. She is also a canny and resourceful operator. Where others would struggle, by the grace of the Lord, she still thrives. Her circumstances maybe challenging, but she holdson to God more fiercely than ever before. As Mr. T would put it, I pity the fool who would try and cross my sister, not because of what she will do to you, but in how her faith will be stronger for it as the hole the fool prepares for her is the same hole he ends up falling into.

Of course she remains ever in need of God’s love through his family, but her example is a testimony to me of God’s supernatural provision time and again. I thank God for her and her faithfulness. As she celebrates another milestone in her journey, my hope is that others will get to see Jesus through her and follow Him in the process gaining her as a big sister as well.

For His Name’s Sake

Shalom

dmcd