Article February 18, 1967 Issue

How to Be Our "brother's keeper"

JOHN H. WILLIAMS

After Cain had through jealousy slain his brother, Abel, he answered God's question as to where Abel was by stating, "I know not: Am I my brother's keeper?" Gen. 4:9; Cain evidently repudiated any responsibility for his brother's well-being.

The same question, "Am I my brother's keeper?" confronts mankind today. Many are reluctant to face up to it. Many give it lip service but do nothing more. Just what is our responsibility to our brother? How far should we go in helping him and promoting the welfare of all mankind?

The answer is found in the Bible. Over and over it tells us of the need to love our brother, to express toward everyone the qualities of compassion, patience, generosity, and helpfulness. Repeating God's words to Moses, Christ Jesus said to the rich young man, "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." Matt. 19:19; There is no qualification in this admonition, no suggestion that we love only those who love us or those who agree with our way of thinking. The basic meaning is clear: we must love all mankind; and, further, we must demonstrate this love in practical, helpful ways.

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