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

Galatians 6:2

This evening Patrina and I spent some time with two couples and then we spoke with a young man. Each of us has a burden or two and some are heavier than others, but just being available and listening to the challenges others face is helpful for everyone involved.

In the brief verse above, Paul communicates this simple truth. When we help carry the load for someone else in some way, we are loving our neighbor as we love ourselves.

Earlier this week I was reminded of the scene as Job’s friends made their initial entrance as Job suffered through the loss of his children, much of his wealth, and his own health –

And they sat with him on the ground seven days and seven nights, and no one spoke a word to him, for they saw that his suffering was very great.

Job 2:13

For seven days and nights, his friends were simply present with him, and in doing so they shared in his pain.

Job’s friends weren’t perfect by any means, but they showed up for their friend and that’s the least we can all do for those around us.