Cultivating Brotherly Kindness

Cultivating Brotherly Kindness

By José Maldonado

​Anytime we immerse ourselves in the words of the apostle Peter in his second letter, it feels as if we're embarking on a quest, expecting that a treasure chest will be waiting at the end. Peter has a specific destination in mind as he guides us along this path. In his first letter, he began by helping us realize we already possess a precious gift. 

"... and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love." 2 Peter 1:7

In his second letter, Peter directly urges us to be kind to our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. While our spiritual journey might initially seem individualistic—focusing on adding knowledge, self-control, and godliness to our faith—Peter now redirects our stare outward, emphasizing the importance of looking to others.

However, it's not merely a matter of looking; we find ourselves challenged to show kindness, specifically brotherly kindness. This distinction is crucial. It calls us to treat everyone as part of our spiritual family, regardless of our familiarity with them. No differences, no favoritism.

When we discover we've progressed on this journey even while navigating life's complexities, we've reached a significant milestone. The apostle Peter doesn't leave us wondering about the treasure waiting at the end of our spiritual rainbow; he reveals it to us—it's love.

Love, the most powerful commandment of all. Jesus Himself made this clear when asked about the greatest commandments: "Love the Lord your God" and "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:37-38).

Having walked this path before us, Peter is intimately familiar with its challenges and pitfalls. He understands that along the journey, we are to grow in knowledge and godliness and our love for one another. It's the culmination of our spiritual growth, the treasure we find at the end of the rainbow.

As we reach this summit of love, we ought to remember that love knows no boundaries. It encompasses all! In extending brotherly kindness and love to those traveling with us on this spiritual journey, we mirror God's love and fulfill the greatest commandment.