Sometimes life can feel like an uphill climb. We start out on level ground and things are going smoothly. Then a small problem comes our way and the ground before us begins to slope gradually upward. We are able to negotiate the rise until another bigger problem comes upon us. Suddenly the ground rises to a more steep rise. With considerable effort we are able to make the steeper climb. Not much later a much bigger trouble assaults us and the climb is steep and arduous. We need rest but cannot find it in the middle of our efforts to climb to the summit of our troubles. All of a sudden several more problems pile on our backs like a backpack full of heavy stones. Now we are finding it difficult to move at all, let alone try to climb out of the troubles.
This is the type of situation that Paul described in Galatians 6:2 when he writes: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” When we get to the point where we have the loaded backpack and are climbing a steep road, it is so good to have the help of good friends. Their assistance makes it possible for us to move forward and eventually summit the mountain of problems. Since this help is so beneficial to us, shouldn’t we also become burden bearers for others who need help.
Jesus set the example for us. We cannot bear the weight of our sin, so Jesus came and carried the full load up the mountain to the cross. At the cross He lifted sin away from us forever and gave us the grace of redemption and salvation. If we choose to keep sin’s burden upon our backs, Jesus will not take it away. But if we give sin’s burden over to Jesus, we are freed from it.
Reluctant Retiree 