“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2 NKJV
The intricate and intelligent design of the human body is one of the most awe-inspiring things ever studied. All 78 organs, 206 bones, 360 joints, 600 muscles and trillions of nerves are connected and working together in unison.
It is no surprise that Apostle Paul likened the church, which is the body of Christ, to the human body where every joint supplies and every part is vital to the general well-being of the body (1 Corinthians 12:12-27, Ephesians 4: 16). He used this analogy to teach two facts about the church:
First, we need one another. The eyes are as important as the limbs, just as you are as important as the brother next to you (1 Corinthians 12:18). Secondly, we share in one another’s burdens because we are members of one body. Therefore, if one member suffers, all other members suffer alongside that one (I Corinthians 12: 26).
Considering the points above as our reality, Apostle Paul, in our anchor scripture, calls us to make this an active part of our lives – to bear the burdens of one another as this is how we fulfil Christ’s law.
To bear the burden of another is to take on some of their weight upon our shoulders. We can do this by earnestly praying for them, physically comforting them when they are down and supporting them financially, if need be.
In Exodus 17: 8 -13, the Israelites were winning the battle against the Amalekites as long as Moses’ hands were up. However, as Moses’ hands began to grow tired, Aaron and Hur came to his side and held up his hands through the period of the battle.
Similarly, to bear one another’s burdens is to hold up one another’s weary hands – whatever that may relate to – and bring one another back to a position of strength. Our zeal for our brethren must be palpable and discernible.
God has blessed us with abilities and resources to serve others. We all have a role to play in building a healthy and loving community. Jesus Christ, the head of His body, the Church, makes the whole body fit together perfectly. He has given each of us a responsibility and the ability to do it well, such that it edifies the entire body – the church (Ephesians 4:16).
When we were joined with God through Jesus Christ, we became members of God’s family, parts of the body of Christ. Jesus teaches us that the summary of God’s commandments is – love God and love your neighbours. We demonstrate our obedience to God and honour His word when we love our brothers and sisters to the point of sharing their burdens.
Today, intentionally decide to bear your brethren’s burden. Does anyone lack? Does anyone need support or prayers? Be that joint that supplies!
Bible Reading Plan: Proverbs 16-18