3/12/11……that’s what encouragement often is. Caring people who “bear one another’s burdens.” (Galatians 6:2) My life has been filled with these “who are more than cheerleaders” my “T-Cups” with whom I shared a 1,000 laughs last night, my “lunch bunch,” my “dining divas”, my Hoptown chums, college chums, Pi Phis, my dancers, neighbors, my Mary Flo, my Michèle etc., etc., etc. As many of you know these were the ones who “fulfilled the law of Christ” as they bore my burdens through my cancer journey. They carried my family and work responsibilities while feeding, nursing and baby sitting me. These folks in the land of the living showed the goodness of the Lord. (Psalm 27:13) and therefore I was not dismayed.
All of us of the community of faith are called to do likewise.
Caring people (those "helping" others in need) bring to mind today's Scripture text which is a powerful rule for the earnest follower of Christ. We are to "bear one another's burdens." To "bear" means to carry or endure. A "burden" means a weight that is heavy or crushing. We have all had experiences in life when others have some alongside and borne our burdens. We are called to do likewise. GAL 6:10 "As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith."
What does "burden bearing" and "doing good" look like? Phone call or e-mail. Errand running. Intercessory prayer at 3am. (Thanks, Bernie) Mail pick-up. Babysitting.
This verb, “bearing” is both imperative (a command) and continuous action. (on-going) Writing that card, making that phone call, picking up that RX or praying for those who need relief from their hardship or difficulty, can be a way to bless them. This has the power to lighten burdens and encourage beyond positive words.
Encouragement is more than words.
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