Ellen Brady, Sister

My sister, Ellen, is 16 months older than I am. For 25 years she chose a path different than the faith of our parents. Ellen was the regular focus of our prayers. Over the years I’ve asked my small group members to hold me accountable to show my love to my sister on a regular basis. It was important to be intentional because I was 14 when I went away to boarding school at Kingsway College in Oshawa, Ontario. These were the years that normally would have provided the opportunity for sisters to grow closer. Instead, we were each closer to our friends, than to each other.

Nevertheless, I prayed. My parents prayed. After I was married, Ron and I prayed. After our daughter was born, each Friday we lit a candle and prayed for each of our siblings family’s, praying that they and we, would love Jesus more.

One day my dad called me and said, “Ellen’s back.” My sister had called my dad and said, “Daddy, you and Mom are the best parents I could’ve ever had. Daddy, I know that I’m a sinner.” My godly father responded, “Ellen, so am I.” My tears began to flow and I couldn’t stop crying. My daughter came into the room and said, “Mommy, what’s wrong.” I responded, “It’s okay, Olivia; nothing’s wrong. Everything is finally right.”

When I later spoke with my sister I told her that now I could pray for Jesus to come back. She responded that we had to wait for Steven, her son, to accept Jesus.

I know that other parents, grandparents, and siblings are praying for family members. I choose to help answers those prayers as God leads these “children” into my sphere of influence.

If you are one of those who are praying, don’t give up. I’m praying with you.