Recently, my youngest brother, Eric, used the term “Gatekeeper” to describe loyalty. Specifically, he applied it as how it relates to family relationships. He was passionate as he stated with great conviction that families should, “Hold it down for one another.”

Previously, I had only thought of “Gatekeeper” as another way Jesus illustrated who He is to us in John 10:9 & 11. Jesus says, “I am the Gate, whoever enters through Me will be saved. My sheep come in and go out and find pasture. I am the Good Shepherd (Gatekeeper) and I will lay down My life for my sheep.”

How does this relate to what my brother has stated and declared? We, as a family by blood and by faith should be attentive to our brothers' and sisters' needs. Daily prayer for each should be at the top of our list, above all else. Checking on, and ensuring that we all enjoy “good pasture” should be our commitment to guarantee that those we claim to love are not in need or suffering from neglect. When we are available, clothed in our right minds, with a reasonable portion of health and strength (to quote the “mature” saints), our goal should be that our loved ones not experience loneliness. Give them the gift of “Presence” even if it’s hearing your voice on the phone on a regular basis.

Loving one another from the heart is what a true gatekeeper does. Honoring our word is what a gatekeeper does. That builds relationships and fortifies a family more than any amount of money or material gifts ever will. Trust is a cornerstone that solidly holds a family together.

The passage in John 10:16 says, “I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them in too. They too will listen to My voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.” Jesus loves our neighbors and so should we. Jesus will share the pasture with them and so we should be willing to move over…the pasture is large enough for us all, regardless of ethnicity or culture!

I’ve decided I like the modern meaning of the term “Gatekeeper”. I am taking the charge to be a “Gatekeeper” first in Jerusalem (to my family) and then to open the doors of my gate when and where I can to bless others.

How? By acknowledging and then applying the words of Ephesians 4:1-2 to my life. “Live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle, be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Thank You Lord and thank you Eric, for your wisdom.

To all of our Readers, will you all commit to “Holding it down” for God and each other?