Galatians 6:1-6 (NRSV)
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Chapter 6My friends, if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted. Verse 2Bear one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Verse 3For if those who are nothing think they are something, they deceive themselves. Verse 4All must test their own work; then that work, rather than their neighbor's work, will become a cause for pride. Verse 5For all must carry their own loads. Verse 6Those who are taught the word must share in all good things with their teacher.
Devotion
Lord, I too often forget. It is so easy to be so wrapped up in my own life that my world becomes cramped, cabined and confined with only my worries.
•Old friends call to request some time to discuss a problem.
•New neighbors move in and seem to be struggling to adjust to the new community.
•A boy writes a note about a bully at school who continues to harass him. “What should I do?” he asks.
Bearing one another’s burdens is the way of Jesus Christ. Living the Christian life is about giving and receiving. It is about going into the world and also being invited into another’s world.
It is a mistake to live within the boundaries of my own small world when with a note, a call, a smile, a burden is lifted and a life is touched all in the name of the One who lived for others.
Prayer
Gracious God, open me to the needs of this day. Help me to love you with all my heart, mind, soul and strength. Bring me to my neighbor’s needs. Amen.