Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:2)
There is something about this verse that has huge consequences for how we relate with brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s also got to impact how we spend our time with each other.
For Paul to say that this is the law of Christ would suggest that it’s got to be a big deal about how we live and spend time with each other.
This weekend I had the pleasure of spending quality time with some precious brothers and sisters. we shared an interest in exploring what faith means together. A few of us gathered have developed really close and important relations. It’s not just because of sharing similar interests, it’s about sharing a passion to be faithful and fruitful for Jesus.
What I expereinced over that weekend, were brothers and sisters carrying some of my burdens in prayer. I literally felt lightened and relieved when I heard and saw just how much my brothers and sisters cared for me. It has not just been in these times of gathering, it’s been when I’ve had important events coming up, or when I’ve struggled in areas. These friends have carried me along, supported and encouraged me, let me know they’ll be with me as I endure.
This influences how we spend our time when we meet together. It’s just as much about having permission to ask critical questions of our lives, and the space to be honest and share, as it is about some teaching or preaching. It’s a very exercise in bearing each other’s burdens. The real sadness is that we don’t do it as often as we would because of where we live, etc. It’s a great model for regular church life – and it certainly influences how I’d want to influenve regular church life.
So often it’s clear to see why people struggle in their faith. It’s simply because they are told it’s up to them and Jesus alone. Either overtly or implied through behaviour, it is conveyed that the ‘love’ on offer is usually on a surface level unless something bad happens. Even then, the response only addresses that immediate issue, nothing further, as we don’t have the time, inclination or capacity.
The law of Christ demands otherwise, and I am living proof of the benefits of living it out. As ever from this weekend, not only do I feel I belong to a loving Father, but also to His loving Family. As ever from this weekend, I am encouraged to look to carry the heavy issues my brothers and sisters face in life, so that they can be relieved to know they are not alone.
It’s that love for each other, that will impact the lives of those who look on to see Jesus’ love in action.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 