Burdens

“They pile heavy burdens on people’s shoulders and won’t lift a finger to help.”

Matthew 23:4 (CEV)

Jesus was talking about the Pharisees in this chapter, saying some non-complimentary things. This verse was the first to stick out and I decided to write about it, not because I think we put heavy burdens on people but because, well, maybe sometimes we don’t help. 

In the third week of October, my family hosted a birthday party for some older, widowed men. It was a small way to bring some encouragement to them and to let them have a fun night. After supper, there was a time of sharing where the men could tell their stories. It was sad, hearing about the pain of losing their wives; but I think it helped the men, being able to talk about it and sharing it with other men in the same boat. Anyway, the men were really thankful that we did this, and we’re planning on continuing to do it.

And that’s what we Christians all should do–find a way to help, to brighten someone’s life, to encourage them–even if it’s something small. We can’t necessarily take the burden away, but we can bear it with them. 

If we see someone carrying a burden and we don’t offer help–if we don’t lift a finger to assist–then we’re really no better than the Pharisees. 

Look for ways to lighten a load today–whether it’s a family member’s, friend’s, coworker’s, or a random person’s. Ask, “How can I help?”