Our Burden vs. My Load

(NOTE:  This one is not in sequence with the other postings or related to my WTBC writings.  Next Saturday we'll pick back up with #3 in the series "Jesus Embodies".)


Galatians 6:2-5

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load. 

Last Friday at breakfast, my friend Chuck shared this passage with our group.  When he did, I noticed notes in my bible that addressed the difference in the burdens we are to share and those we shoulder alone.   

The word translated "burden" refers to a load that cannot be borne alone.  It reminded me of carrying 25 large sheets of 3/4" plywood with about 25,000 springs on the back that make up the floor that gymnasts perform on - that can't be carried by one guy - at least not by this one.  I need help to set up that floor.  And I'm extremely grateful to the other gymnast's parents who help. 


The words translated "his own load" above refers to that which one person can and should carry for himself like a soldier's back pack.  I don't need help carrying my laptop to work.  There's no reason anyone should carry it for me, and it's not good for me to depend on others for such simple things.  


Bottom line - there are things we need help on/need to help others with, and things that are our own responsibility.  By having both, the body of Christ develops and functions as we should.

-------------------------------Warning -----------------------------------

POLITICAL COMMENT AND PERSONAL OPINION AHEAD:

I believe this scripture is one of the foundations America was built on.  There are people who need help with their burdens from their neighbors.  I believe there are roles for the organized church, community groups, individuals, and even the government in helping those who need temporary help due to events beyond their control.  I even more strongly believe we all have a duty and responsibility to carry our own load - to do those things we can for ourselves and for others.  Enabling people to be lazy is not God's plan for anyone. 



The Apostle Paul can close this thought better than I can (II Thessalonians 3:6-15)

Warning Against Idleness
In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone's food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to make ourselves a model for you to follow. For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: "If a man will not work, he shall not eat." We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right. If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed. Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.