Connor and Kevin are fraternal twins, the sons of my niece who live in Connecticut. When they were about ten years old their family moved to a larger house where each had his own room. Their bedrooms were separated by a bathroom, and each could decorate his room as he wanted it. They both enjoyed having their own space, but at night they slept together, alternating rooms. That procedure lasted for the first six months of settling into their new home. The boys engage in some separate sports and activities, but at home there is no question of the invisible bond between them. Invisible, because they are far from identical. One is taller than the other, and their faces are unmistakable.

In the Bible Jesus creates a brotherhood among his disciples that takes on the character of fraternal twins. “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends. (John 15:15) This is the first stage of the transformation that Jesus would make to produce brothers out of the eleven disciples. At the very tomb where he his body had been laid, the risen Jesus said to Mary Magdalene, Do not hold onto me. . . Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my father and your father, to my God and your God’.” (John 20:17) Different as each of them is from the others, yet, the bond grew during the three years that they were with Jesus: “ You do not want to leave me, too, do you?” Jesus asked . Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:67)

All but one stayed the course, and became models for us of God’s intention for His faithful people.: “ I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. No, the Father Himself loves you because you have loved me. . .” (John 16:27)

Jesus sought disciples who would bond like a brother to himself and hence to his Father. They would not be ordinary brothers, but these would be like fraternal twins to Jesus. They would love him and participate in his life. They would even represent him after he rose from death. More than two thousand years later such disciples are still sought by Jesus, even among such as you and me.

Love in Him,

Prue