Sibling Rivalry

This is a story about two sisters. Their struggle actually began in their mother’s womb and continued throughout their lives. The first to be born was Erica. She was tough, wild and aggressive. Minutes later came Jane she was dainty, meek and passive. They were fraternal twins. As the girls grew they took on distinct personalities. They didn’t walk, talk or think alike. They were complete opposites that competed for everything. Their differences soon pushed them apart. It wasn’t long before they became envious, jealous and bitter towards each other. The only common desire that they shared was the love and approval from their father and mother and for it they would lie, cheat and steal.

A similar story of conflict and reconciliation can be found in the pages of the Bible in Genesis chapters 25 – 33. Esau and Jacob fought over their inheritance and after many years and hardships they too came to a place of forgiveness and reconciliation.

We live in a society where people are filled with so much anger and hatred for each other. Can you relate? Though it does exist, it doesn’t have to remain so. Reconciliation is available to all that seek it but somebody has to give in. In fact this is the story of God and us. Guess who gave in? You guessed it, God.

Ephesians 1:7 reads: In Him (Christ Jesus) we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.

Wanda W. Fulton