Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

 

Is there a particular task or chore that you habitually put off?

The pile was getting higher and higher. For months Maya kept setting aside badly wrinkled clothes in an ironing pile that she just never got around to ironing.  Then a work trip came up suddenly and she needed some of those clothes for her trip—but there was no time! Amazingly though, she was married to a man who, completely unasked, jumped right in and ironed it all for her!

What a beautiful demonstration of the Bible verse from the book of Galatians, chapter 6 that says, “Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). The law of Christ is summed up in this four-letter word:  L O V E. Megan’s husband didn’t have an obligation to help his wife out. He did what he did out of simple love for her…and she was overwhelmed by the thoughtful gesture.

When is the last time you or I have overwhelmed someone with love in a very real, not all that fun, practical way? In order to love this way, we have to attend to others, we have to listen and actually understand what’s going on in their life. God knows it’s easy to be so absorbed in our own stresses we forget about those around us. That’s why Scripture reminds us, “And don’t forget to do good and share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God” (Hebrews 13:16).

We live with, work with and brush shoulders with people with tangible needs every day. Try living the Jesus way of love—which may or may not include ironing–and be prepared for those around you to be surprised…and delighted.