I Can Carry You...

"Carry each others burdens ..." 
Galatians 6:2

My boys are HUGE fans of The Lord of the Rings.They have all three movies,(extended versions),own all the soundtracks, have read the book multiple times, and can be heard quoting from it often and at random times. Truth be told, there are indeed several inspiring moments from this classic.

Just the other day, the family was together and during the course of our conversation...out came a line from the movie. I have no recollection of what we were talking about, but I do remember this scene...

Frodo Baggins has been on this epic journey to destroy the ring. Samwise Gamgee is his faithful friend, his protector...his encourager. They are exhausted and close to their destination...the fires of Mordor. (I hope I have this right...my boys will be so disappointed in me if I get it wrong.) Sam has asked Frodo if he remembers home...the Shire. Frodo says, "No, Sam. I can't recall the taste of food... nor the sound of water... nor the touch of grass. I'm... naked in the dark, with nothing...". Then Sam says...

"I can't carry it for you, but I can carry you!" 

And he picks up his friend.......and begins to carry him up the mountain. Isn't that what we are called to do? Galatians 6:2 says, "Carry each other's burdens and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ". What is the law of Christ? When the disciples asked Jesus what the most important commandment was, His answer was to love God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. Then He went on to say "and love your neighbor as yourself". I believe the law of Christ is rooted in love. Caring for one another and carrying one another.

Who do you know that is carrying a heavy burden? Perhaps they have a physical need, a medical diagnosis that has rocked their world. Perhaps the loss of a job has put them in financial crisis. Or maybe a loved one has disappointed them in a way that has broken their heart. Or maybe that dear loved one has finished their journey here on earth and has gone home. 

Sometimes there is so little we feel we can do. While we may be unable to heal their physical needs or repair their broken hearts; if we are unable to give them employment or pay that light bill for them, and we certainly can't bring that dear one back to life...we can carry them through this difficult time. Encourage them, love them, lift them up in prayer. And there are physical things we can do such as take them a meal, clean their house, or just take them out for coffee. 

"God, please help me to see with Your eyes, those who are broken and hurting; those who are carrying heavy burdens; burdens I can't carry for them...but I can carry them!"

Find that friend or loved one who is walking beneath a heavy load. Come along side them and say...

"I can't carry it for you, but I can carry you!"
Scene from the movie