We were fresh-faced newlyweds in South Wales, living our best lives in the top floor of a huge old house overlooking the sea.
The up-side was the ridiculously cheap rent. The down-side was navigating the metal fire escape snaking down the back of the brick home. Especially when carrying something like—a refrigerator.
It started so well. I forget why we thought it was a good idea to maneuver an appliance without enlisting the help of friends, but my husband took the brunt of the burden by inching backward as I offered my best efforts from the higher, lighter end.
The details are hazy although I seem to recall turning the sharp corner and accidentally letting go. This resulted in a rapid descent and the fridge pinning my man to the red brick wall.
For a horrible moment, I thought I had squished him—but I’m here to tell you he was relatively unscathed! However, etched in my memory is the fact that I failed to help carry that particular burden with him.
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2, NIV).
My example may be a tad dramatic, yet I wonder why we didn’t ask others for assistance. Pride? Impatience? Apathy? I’ll be the first to raise my hand and admit that I do not like asking for help in any area of my life. And that’s not how it should be.
As children of God, we are part of His family. When we see others celebrate, we celebrate with them. When we see our brothers and sisters grieving, we listen and cry alongside them. And when they need a helping hand—we offer whatever we can.
Spiritually, emotionally, and physically.
It’s a gift and a blessing for both giver and recipient. It’s how we carry one another’s burdens. It’s how we love one another well.
Friend, is there a ‘fridge’ you can help someone carry this week?
