The heavy load
A man walks down a lonely road struggling to carry his load.
A familiar face appears in the distance. Eye contact is made. “Oh good,” thinks the man, “someone to help!” But the familiar face shamefully smiles and walks on past.
Several miles later a car pulls up and stops. Caring friend gets out and asks if the man wants a ride. The man explains his depressing load that must come along. Caring friend remembers the important meeting he must attend and promises to check back later. The man never hears from caring friend again.
The load gets too much to bear. The man sits hopelessly.
Total stranger appears from behind the man. The stranger recognizes the load, picks up the heaviest part and encourages the man to continue his journey. “Why?” asks the man, “You don’t even know me!” Total stranger replies, “I may not know you, but I recognize the load. Someone helped me once and now I’m here to help you.”
Gal 6:1-3: Live creatively, friends. If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the day’s out. Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ’s law. If you think you are too good for that, you are badly deceived.
Posted on June 18, 2012, in depression and tagged Burden, carry, friends, heavy. Bookmark the permalink. 3 Comments.
Great illustration, Shane. Is there a burden you’d like to share? I’m available for prayer!
There were a few who recognized my load nearly two years ago and came alongside to help me carry the pain. Even then, there are some loads that only I was able to carry with Jesus. Some places where only he and I could travel to together. I am thankful for his strong arms. Without them, I would have surely given up a long time ago.
peace~elaine
Shane, I enjoyed your post! reminded me of the story of the Good Samaritan and how we should all be willing to extend a helping hand.