from A Daybook of Grace
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
“Give me a stout heart to bear my own burdens. Give me a willing heart to bear the burdens of others. Give me a believing heart to cast all burdens upon Thee, O Lord.” (John Baillie)
We are not responsible to carry certain burdens of others. In Galatians 6:5, Paul says that “each one should carry his own load.” Another translation for the word in that verse would be a “backpack.” All of us are able to carry a certain amount of weight in life. In fact, doing things for others that they should do for themselves can lead to a cycle of co-dependence that is unhealthy for the one not pulling his own weight–and for the one carrying multiple backpacks.
But there are some burdens that are excessive. They are too heavy for one person to lift alone. Physical disabilities, emotional trauma, and other burdens can crush one’s spirit through sheer magnitude. In cases like this, Paul says we can fulfill the law of Christ by helping someone carry the load. Is there someone in your life who needs you to share the love of Christ with him or her? Are you willing to help someone carry that weight?
Almighty God, help us to open our eyes to the needs of others and our hearts to you. Amen.
