We’re Better Together

Moses’ arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset.

Even though the little girl had received a transplant after being diagnosed with kidney disease, her kidney was once again failing. She needed a new one. As a result, she had to begin four-hour dialysis treatments at the hospital, two days a week.

Reading about the young girl’s situation on a local message board, my friend Erin was moved to do something—first, to pray. Then, quietly and without fanfare, to sign up to be a donor.

Within months, she was in the hospital, recovering from surgery. Thanks to Erin donating on her behalf, the girl was placed on the living donor list, making it likely that she would receive a kidney much sooner than she would have otherwise.

After Erin’s surgery, as her friends and family rallied around—her husband and mom faithfully helping each day with the kids, a round of friends dropping off meals—I couldn’t help but think about the story of Moses and the battle with the Amalekites. The Israelites had the advantage in the fight as long as Moses held up his staff. But anytime his arms drooped from weariness, the Israelites’ ability waned. Noticing this, his trusted friends and family members Aaron and Hur held up his arms for him. With their support, the battle was won.

What a beautiful picture of the body of Christ. We are not meant to live this life alone. We simply can’t do it all on our own. Just as Erin stepped in when she saw a need, those who loved her did the same while she recuperated. I am grateful that God puts people in our lives to help us when we are struggling. When we work together, we embody the loving community we were meant to experience all along.

Kristin

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Has a friend or loved one supported you when you struggled to face something alone? If so, say thank you.