Sharing The Burden

Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.

Our son was in the hospital after getting his appendix removed. I was sitting alone with him in a room. We were unable to have visitors, but I posted a request for prayer on social media and sent a few texts to close friends.

Once family and friends saw my messages, my phone began to light up with offers to take our other kids or bring meals to our house, along with prayers for a quick recovery.

“How can we help?” The words came across my screen from several concerned friends.

I smiled as I read each one of their notes, grateful for their support and feeling more than willing to accept their offers of help. I let my husband know. “April will be by to pick up the girls for a bit. Don’t worry about lunch; she’ll feed them.” A little while later: “Krista is bringing a meal over for supper.”

I clicked my phone off and laid my head back on the chair, letting out a big sigh. I turned to look at my son resting comfortably in the bed, and I was overwhelmed with gratitude for the people around us.

A little while earlier, I had felt helpless to meet all of my family’s needs. The messages from loved ones reminded me that we were not alone. I could feel the prayers and love even though we were physically separated.

As Christians, we are meant to share one another’s burdens. God made us to be in community with others. Sharing honestly when we have needs is part of what brings us together. It’s a give-and-take. Sometimes we offer help, and other times we receive it. Being on both sides of giving and accepting help is essential and needed. And I am learning to feel gratitude when I am placed in either position.

Kendra

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Who has been giving to you lately? Send a note or message to say how much you appreciate their support.