Galations 6:2 "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."
As Christ-followers, as the church, do we really do that? Do we really “carry each other’s burdens?” I think to truly do this we have to be willing to let down our own guard around our hearts.
Do we really open ourselves up, open our hearts up, to hurt for our fellow Christians?
Do we hold such a tight grasp around our heart that we keep others out? We risk pain, rejection, ridicule and judgment when we share our souls. There’s no guarantee your feelings won’t be trampled on.
But if we want to share in the hurts of others we have to share our own with them. We have to take the risk of revealing our deepest pains, fears and frustrations. We harden our hearts and that won't happen. If we build a wall to keep ourselves from getting hurt, those who need a friend to listen and not judge them won't be able to share their pain.
Over the past week I have prayed through blinding tears for friends. Praying that God would wrap them in his love & comfort them. My heart is humbled that God would bring these friends into my life. They challenge me, encourage me & build me up. I wouldn't take back the risk of sharing my soul & help carry their pain.
Yes it's painful to hurt deeply for a friend. In the end, though, when we pray for them it's our own hearts that receive the blessings. The blessings of a friendship grounded in grace.
