When You Can't Be There
Read Galatians 6:1-10
Bear one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
-Galatians 6:2 (NRSV)
I live about a six-hour drive from my family. Some of my relatives now face the challenges of severe health problems, and some are taking care of my aunt and other family members who need help. Because I can't be there often to do little things for my family, I sometimes feel depressed and helpless.
However, I have learned that I can find comfort in helping my local friends. While I can't make dinner for my relatives, I have the opportunity to bake a pan of lasagna for my friend who recently fell on the ice and broke her arm. I can invite another family over for a chili supper while their kitchen is being remodeled and there are still five children to feed. Helping people gives me joy. Serving others is a gift that results in a double serving of comfort -- one for the people I help and one for myself.
I'm happy to hear that members from my aunt's church are cooking her meals until she gets back on her feet. If we all continue to bear one another's burdens, we honor God. While I can't directly bear the burdens of my relatives far away, I can help lighten the load of those around me. And through the circle of faith, others may lighten the burden of my family.
Anjie Greene-Martin (Wisconsin, U.S.A.)
God, remind us that when we can't be close to our families, we can find comfort in helping others who are near to us. Amen.
God calls us to serve where we are.
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People who live far from family
