Bearing Burdens

Today I've been thinking about bearing the burdens of one another. During our midweek services at church, we're exploring Paul's letter to the churches of Galatia. Interestingly, it is Paul's MOST angry letter in the New Testament.

The Galatians (a group of early Christians) were getting really off-track and distracted by other faith leaders who were leading the people astray. Paul wants SOOOOO badly to help these people that he loves to much understand the freedom of the gospel. Other people were trying to trick these early believers into thinking that they still had to live under the law (i.e. be circumcised and follow traditional laws and customs). Paul is a big advocate of the FREEDOM of faith and forgiveness. He said people of faith didn't have to live under all those rules and regulations.

Later on in the letter, Paul writes: "Bear one another's burdens." A little later on, he writes: "So let us not grow weary in doing what is right." And then, "So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all." I adore all these wise words.

Isn't it such a powerful experience when you have a great conversation with someone? And they really listen? When they really "bear your burdens"? These kind of heart-to-heart talks are so transformative. I think that worship and church at its BEST is an environment where these sort of encounters happen abundantly. And friendships and relationships at their BEST are filled with these kind of authentic, real, loving encounters.

I'm not exactly sure that all these thoughts are leading me to any particular realization.
Mostly, Paul's letter to the Galatians is just reminding me that I really want to be a good pastor, friend, daughter, sister, and maybe, someday, a good spouse - who never wearies of bearing burdens.