Scripture: Galatians 6:2 (NRSV)
Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Reflection:
There is a quiet resistance many of us carry when it comes to needing others. We may not name it out loud, but it appears in how quickly we say, “I’m fine,” how hesitant we are to ask for help, or how easily we apologize for taking up space. Somewhere along the way, we learned that faithfulness means managing on our own.
Paul offers a different perspective. He does not view burden-bearing as a spiritual act or an act of extraordinary compassion. Instead, he describes it as the core of a faithful life. To bear one another’s burdens, he explains, is to fulfill the law of Christ. In other words, love is not just an idea—it is demonstrated when we refuse to let each other face life alone.
This matters because faith doesn’t arrive evenly. Some days we feel grounded and hopeful, while other days we are exhausted, unsure, or quietly overwhelmed. The early Christian community understood this. Faith grew not because everyone had the same strength, but because they stayed close enough to share what they had—presence when words failed, prayer when hope was thin, and steadiness when someone else was unraveling.
Still, receiving that kind of care can feel vulnerable. It can stir up shame or fear—fear of being a burden, fear of appearing weak, fear of losing control. Yet Galatians reminds us that needing each other isn’t a failure of faith. It’s actually one of the ways faith is built. Growth happens not only when we give support but also when we let ourselves be supported.
A faith that shows up isn’t measured by how much we can carry alone. It is revealed through our willingness to stay connected—taking turns holding faith and trusting that love will meet us on both sides of giving and receiving.
Practice:
Notice today whether you’re resisting help or quietly carrying more than you should. Without judgment, ask what it might mean to let someone share the weight.
Journaling Prompt:
What makes it hard for you to accept support from others? What could change if you let faith be shared instead of carried alone?
Prayer:
God of shared strength, you understand the weight we carry and how we try to bear it quietly. Free us from the belief that we must handle everything alone. Teach us to give and receive care with grace, trusting that love is at work when burdens are shared.
Amen.