Live Outside Ourselves

Carry each other's burdens,
and in this way
you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2 (NIV)

We are to share, in love, the struggles and problems of others. The “law of Christ” is His command to “love one another” [John 13:34]. When we carry “each other’s burdens,” we fulfill the law of Christ.

I heard about a man who turned bitter and helpless when his request for a parking variance on his home was turned down by his neighborhood commission. 

His gravel driveway didn’t meet the paved surface required by city code. He had been in a terrible accident and, as a result, health problems had forced him to retire. Although he was sometimes confined to a wheelchair, he still managed to do some work to pay his bills. The 64-year-old needed to park along his fence to use it to support himself while he climbed in and out of his dump truck.

Everyone wanted to help him out but he didn’t have the money to install a parking pad. One person said he couldn’t get the situation out of his mind. He stepped forward and took action. He called several concrete companies to meet him at the sight, talk about it and come up with a way through the dilemma. The workers, without hesitation, volunteered time and supplies and finished the job in short order.

The man was speechless. He cried. He thought no one really cared. 

I don’t know if the man realized it or not but he had experienced God’s love. These were ordinary people who were drawn by the love and caring in their hearts to help someone in need.

God calls us to love Him and to allow His love to overflow into reaching out and loving others.

Let's think on what sort of burdens our family, neighbors, co-workers or friends are carrying, especially during these difficult times. How can you [or do you] help carry their load?