Article October 2, 1965 Issue

"My brother's keeper"

BARBARA AVENSTRUP

We may ask ourselves, To what extent and in what circumstances should we feel responsible for our brother's welfare and happiness? Should we ever feel justified in repeating Cain's words (Gen. 4:9), "Am I my brother's keeper?"

The compassionate teachings of Christian Science show that each of us has a solemn responsibility towards his fellowmen and that each is at all times obligated to fulfill this responsibility. This loving concern differs considerably, however, from the human sense of duty, which is often fraught with a burden of anxiety and care.

Our Master, Christ Jesus, counseled his disciples in what he termed the second commandment (Mark 12:31), "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." Herein lies our whole and beneficent obligation. But it requires a constant vigilance on our part and is attainable only through daily prayer and communion with God.

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