The burdens we carry.

Greetings,
I am finishing my study of the book of Galatians. After reminding me to walk according to the Holy Spirit, Paul immediately tells me that this Spirit is not given to simply make me feel secure in my relationship with God or to simply give me some sort of superiority complex. The Spirit is given so that I might live out my life in a way that honors Jesus. Paul tells the church to "carry each other's burdens."

I tend to bristle a bit at this. I think, I don't have the capacity to carry any person's burdens--I have enough of a load.... I am so self-serving. Or I think that, as a church "leader," that I know so many burdens I can allow myself to be overwhelmed and not do anything. I do not think Jesus would have much patience with my attitude.

How do I love my neighbor? How do I serve my brother and sister? I must help them with their burdens, and we all have burdens--right? The one thing I know is that I must have relationships with people so that I find out about their burdens and can in turn share my burdens. We are not an island to ourselves. We need each other. We need to live a life of love and service. That is the law of Jesus.

So, my challenge to all of us is: do you have someone to help carry your burden? Someone who loves you and will have compassion? Someone who will not only pray for you, but take action in helping with the load you carry? Find someone.

Blessings and joy,

Rob

I am a wimp

I have been physically sick the past two weeks. You know the story: no energy; headaches; aches and pains not associated with old age; a throat that surprises you when you open your mouth--never sure what will come out!! My bride cares for me "in sickness and in health," but I have a good idea that she thinks I'm a wimp! (I am when it come to not feeling well.)

I have been overwhelmed with the concern from my family and my friends. They have served me well. I think of these kind serving hearts as I read Paul's statement that the entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Now when the Apostle Paul writes all inclusive statements like that, I sit up and take notice.

God reminds me through Paul's letter to the Galatian church that I show and PROVE my love for God when I love my neighbor. You see, that is how Paul can drop the first half of the Great Commandment (Love the Lord your God with all your heart...) and summarize the entire 10 Commandments from Exodus 20 in a five word command!

Who is my neighbor and am I loving them? Paul warns the church to get back to doing what the church is suppose to do--love the world for Christ's sake. Remember who we are--adopted children of the King and the our Father expects us to demonstrate our adoptive status by loving those around us with the love Christ had for us. I may be a wimp when I'm not feeling well, but I do not want to be a wimp when it comes to loving those God has placed around me as neighbors.

Who is your neighbor? Show love for them through service this week.

Rob