Devotion for January 11
January 11, 2012
Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2
“I am so glad to be a part of this congregation,” he said. On the other side of significant surgery, his recovery was coming along but the pain level had been intense. “I can feel the prayers of this church – and they make all the difference in the world.”
Bearing one another’s burdens is a simple thing. It means to be present and in prayer for one another. It doesn’t mean that we can fix the situation – rarely do we have that kind of power. Nor does it mean having the wisdom to say just the right thing at just the right time – if you’re like me, such wisdom usually comes after the person has left! It’s the simple act of kindness; the presence of truly listening; and the willingness to bring that person before the throne of God.
That’s what my friend was telling me. There’s no way I can speed up his recovery or remove his pain – as much as I’d love to. But that wasn’t what he was grateful for. He was thankful for a community of faith that cared enough to pray for him, check in on him and his recovery and support him and his family through cards, phone calls and brief visits.
St. Paul tells us that when we do these things we fulfill the law of Christ. Of course… the law of Christ is active love of God and others. And it begins in the church, St. Paul tells us. At the heart of the church isn’t doctrine or correct liturgy. The heart of the church is caring – first for those within the congregation and then those outside of it. As we live this, the Holy Spirit will lead us into God’s Word and reflection which, in turn, will lead us to a healthy understanding of our faith. That’s how our doctrine’s came to be and it still works.
I invite you to join me this week in simply reaching out to someone you know who may need support; may need to know that they are not facing their circumstances alone; may need to know that someone is praying for them. Together we can fulfill the law of Christ – and for at least two people the world will change.
