EXAM TWO: FAMILY "PLANNING"
Inside the conversation of a family reunion, is the celebration of another baby due next month. And as the relatives take turns suggesting names and pledging future baby-sitting, they notice a familiar man walking up the driveway.
"Is that Brian?” A guest incites happiness amongst everyone.
The family’s lone desperado took a day off from his spontaneous navigation with various ministries. And with his face partially hidden by the flowers he brought for the expecting mother, he enters.
"Hey Sis,” Brian says through the strong hug awaiting him.
Welcoming emotions form a line to greet him. That is, everyone except for his estranged brother sitting in the corner unimpressed.
As the original baby planning resumes, the suddenly silent brother sees an opportunity to take a subliminal stab at his brother, without disclosing his jealousy.
"So BRIAN, we’re all waiting for you to have kids, man! Wouldn’t that be something you guys?”
The smiling crowd agrees as he probes deeper.
"So you’re still single at...uhh... 45, though. Thank God for me and my sister's, or I guess the family line would be stuck, huh?”
The argumentative brother is fully aware of Brian’s ongoing struggle in relationships. He is equally aware of his reluctance to talk about it. However, he certainly was not prepared for Brian’s reply.
"Brother," Brain says laughing, "some of us were not made to be married, but only to do God’s work .”
"What?” his brothers says shocked.
"It’s right there in the Bible,” Brian replies getting up. "Alright, I must go. You guys take it easy.”
As his sister walks Brian out, their brother rushes to another room to find a Bible. Meanwhile, the rest of the family questions Brain’s statement.
"Oh,” the mother to be returns, "that was probably just a trick to finally make him read the Bible. Of course God wants everyone to get married!”
"Actually,” another relative adds, "I think Brian has a point. I mean think about it. How many prophets in the Bible do you remember being married? Maybe some truly are born with a different path, even when it comes to basic love!"
As the conversation continues, the family members begin to glance at the pregnant stomach next to them, just wondering.
It is now time for you to wonder. Who is right? What will Brian’s brother discover?
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