These Are My JOTtings...

Brotherly Love

The love of brother's really grand
from days of play to marching band.
Though years have flown around the sun
the days of brother's still begun.

We brought him home when I was three.
"Oh, bring him here my toys to see!"
He straddled bike when I was nine,
but fell and broke his arm, unkind.

When playing tennis in our teens,
he charged the net and looked so mean.
To slam the ball and win the point
he threw his shoulder out of joint.

My brother runs at life full bore
in proper gait at fifty-four.
The years can't slow eternal view
for Christ has much for us to do.

Through waning years of mom and dad
my brother honored, made them glad.
By Dad's last bed a full two weeks
he stood and every need to seek.
The faithful son to mom's full end
he watched and prayed and sang to mend.

With gifted lady by his side
they've trotted globe stride for stride.
His heart for lost souls ever looks.
He brings their spirits to The Book.

Three stalwart youths call this man, "Dad."
Their admiration's ever glad.
They all know Jesus. What a gift!
This peace of mind his heart it lifts.

A writer, teacher music makes
with trumpet, guitar and piano takes
Believers to The Throne of Grace
to show the way to lasting Place.

A humble man, he seeks no praise.
With servant's heart The Lord to raise.
He's known by many who love him, dear.
Response is strong and true and clear.

My brother's one, who is a man.
I'm proud of him and where he stands.
He lives for Truth and honors God.
I take to feet as him applaud.

Imperfect man he's made mistakes,
but gets back up, new steps he takes.
He wonders how the Lord can use
someone, who can't perfection choose.

I wish that I could help him see
the man I know, who's tall as tree.
At six foot plus I look inclined,
the "little brother" there I find.

He's passed me by in many ways
in height and service, wondrous days.
My place is blessed, if just to wait
and guard the stuff at Master's Gate
For he, who stays beside the stuff
will share in glory sure enough.

One part's a mouth to speak so true
to share the thoughts of Head to you.
One part's a hand to carry aught
to serve The Master loving brought.

by Jay O'Toole
on April 15th, 2018