CARRYING THE BURDEN
Galatians 6:2
"Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."
We just came off a great hunt with 5 Purple Heart Medal recipients at Two Hats Ranch. It was amazing with so many giving of themselves for those who gave so much of themselves for us. We've been part of this hunt for many years and it never ceases to amaze me to see the love shown by those serving through Quest Ministries. Each year I'm reminded of one of the greatest examples of servanthood that I have witnessed...
Phillip had just shot the biggest buck of his life. It lay 200+ yards out on the far end of the field. 200 yards is an easy walk... Unless you lost your legs to a terrorist's explosive device. But Phillip was up for anything and even though he couldn't walk, he was ready to wheel himself across the field but the sandy soil and the thick vegetation would make it impossible.
We offered to push Phillip in his wheel chair but he suggested that one of us "piggyback" him and someone else bring the chair. I was willing to try, but thankfully Hance, Phil's guide, told him to climb on and off they went across the field. I rushed ahead and got behind the dead buck and videoed as they approached. It was one of those sights that will remain in my memory forever. My eyes were filled with tears as they approached.
In Colossians 3:2 We're commanded to focus on heavenly things... but even the most committed Christian today will tell you that earthly trials sometimes overshadow their heavenly view of things in life.
Colossians 3:2
"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."
In our world today we are overrun with issues of worry and fret. The more we worry the more we are open to deeper sin. Then as we worry and drift further and further from a trust relationship with Christ we start to develop a large amount of guilt. It becomes a load that is too heavy for one person to bear by themselves.
But that is precisely why the people of God's church and family are so important. It is our duty as Christians to help bear one another's burdens; remember Galatians 6:2 above. When someone staggers, we help steady the load. If he is straining, we help bear the burden. And if he stumbles, we lift him up. Helping our brothers and sisters carry the weight of their worldly troubles is one of the chief practical duties that should consume every Christian.
As we faithfully carry the burdens of others, our own burden won't seem so heavy. Best of all, you will find it easier to keep your focus heavenward, regardless of the trials we suffer in this life.
The joy of seeing a brother or sister overcome the weight of a burden far outweighs the difficulty we face in serving them. I saw the face of a guide as he carried his hunter to a trophy... It was the look of joy as he carried Phillip to his trophy.
It is a privilege to carry another's burdens... And when we do this we are fulfilling the commandments of Christ Himself.
CARRY THE BURDEN
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