Day 34: Carrying Each Others’ Burdens
Galatians 6:2
Paul’s statement begs us to ask, “What is the law of Christ?” The Scriptures invite us to investigate this question because Paul does not explicitly express his thoughts, and many verses volunteer themselves for consideration. Perhaps our best options are Jesus’ own words such as: “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 13:34); “Pick up your cross and follow me” (Matt. 16:24); and finally, “No greater love exists than one who would lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13).
These verses incline one towards the understanding that the law of Christ is not Jesus’ interpretation of the Old Testament laws but how He lived His life. Jesus’ idea of love encapsulates the expressions of burden-bearing and self-giving. It perfectly describes His life: intentionally living to seek the ultimate betterment of others, despite the circumstances, even at the cost of ultimate personal sacrifice.
Jesus offers humanity the opportunity to restore its once-great state of “the image of God,” free from our fallen nature, as a result.
If the Church is responsible for emulating Christ’s life to the nations, how much more should we imitate Christ to the church Body? How can we better emulate Christ’s life and mission to our church family than bearing one another’s burdens—even if that burden is sin? In embodying Christ, we represent His burden-bearing and self-giving love, our Heavenly Father’s patience, and the Holy Spirit’s vital restorative work within us.
Reflection Prayer
Father, open my eyes to the things unseen, my ears to the unheard, and my mind to the unknown so that I may resemble Christ to those in and out of the Church—that I eagerly desire, soberly examine, humbly accept, and perfectly perform the things most pleasing to You. For the glory, honor, and praise of Your name. I pray these things in Your Son’s holy name, who lives and reigns with You, together with the Holy Spirit, now, before, and forever. Amen.
Week 5: Family Now
In week 5, we’ll celebrate the reality that we are all part of the same Body, all part of the family of God.