Eyes for Others

It’s Friday night. I’m at my parents’ house. I have a three-day weekend, and I’m glad to spend it here. The evening with my family has been restorative. But I’m also tired from my full week and long drive.

“I think I’m ready to go to bed,” I say.

That’s actually a problem, because I don’t have a bed here. My parents’ new house is smaller than the rambling Victorian home I grew up in. There’s no guest room in this house, so I’ll probably have to crash on the couch. It most likely won’t be a restful night.

“Are there spare blankets for me to throw on the sofa?” I ask my mom.

Before she answers, my brother Isaiah interjects. “I’ll sleep on the couch,” he says.

“That’s all right, Isaiah,” I say. “I don’t mind it.” I begin grabbing pillows off the sofa.

“No, take my bed,” Isaiah says. “I already washed my sheets for you.”

I set an armload of pillows onto the floor and look at him. His eyes are lit up, and he’s smiling.

Isaiah is happy to give up his bed. He’s joyful to put himself last and to put me first. Before I had even come home, Isaiah had anticipated what I would need, and he took care of me. He has eyes for others.

What a stunning example of love.

“Thank you for taking care of me, Isaiah,” I say. “You’re a good guy.”

I help create a makeshift bed for Isaiah on the sofa. Then I head for his bedroom. I pull back crisp sheets and lay down. As I stare at the ceiling, I pray.

“Lord, give me a heart like Isaiah’s. Help me to see others’ needs even before they do. And help me to find joy in putting their needs before my own.”

*    *    *

Sunlight sprays through the gap in the curtains. I stretch, my feet extending past the end of the twin bed. I slept the whole night through, and I feel rested.

Thanks to someone who knows how to care for others.