Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
As we continue to dwell on the theme of peace this week, Advent reminds us that the peace Christ brings is not meant to be kept to ourselves. As we wait for the one who carries our burdens, we are called to imitate Christ by carrying the burdens of others. When we receive Christ’s peace, it becomes easier to seek peace with others, even those who frustrate us. Advent also guards us from becoming so preoccupied with our own inner peace that we neglect to foster it in lives of others.
In Galatians 6:2, Paul exhorts us, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” As Jesus tells us in Matthew 22, all of Scripture’s commands are fulfilled in the law to love God and to love neighbor as ourselves. When we carry one another’s burdens, we are putting this command into practice in a tangible way.
But what does it look like to carry someone else’s burden? The answer will vary depending on the person and the circumstance. For some, it may mean offering a patient, listening ear. For others, it might involve helping with a task or chore that is causing stress. Advent reminds us that our small acts of love can foster a sense of God’s nearness. In every case, we remember that our peace is deeply interconnected with the peace of those around us. How we respond to those in need can either nurture or disrupt this shared peace.
Today, take a moment to reflect on someone in your life who might be carrying a burden. Ask the Lord for his guidance in how you might support that person, then choose one practical way to help. This might look like listening, offering encouragement, lending a hand, or simply asking, “How can I help you?” In doing this, we extend the peace Christ in this season of waiting.