Throughout our lives, we inevitably encounter challenges too heavy for us to carry. When we do, we need help. These burdens can take many forms: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual…But all these burdens have one thing in common – they should not be borne alone.

The word used in Galatians 6:2 for “burden” is baros, which describes an overwhelming load, a burden so heavy that it is crushing the back of the person who is trying to bear it. Indeed, all of us have our peculiar, personal struggles in life that we may need to bear ourselves (along with some generous doses of encouragement). But when our burden is too large to bear alone, we need help.

Hurricane Sandy has devastated the lives of so many people in the New York area these past two weeks, and I am so inspired to see and read the stories of those that are carrying the burdens of others in the midst of this tragedy. Whether it be caring locals, Red Cross volunteers, or National Guard – a great many are carrying out this command from Christ to come alongside those devastated by the storm.

But not all of us can personally go to volunteer in New York... We have our own communities where we can carry the burdens of others. Is there someone in your life that is carrying a burden too big for him or her to bear? Should you come alongside that person? What if it inconveniences you, taxes your resources, involves menial tasks?