The Burden Bearer Year

I would have to describe my 2024 as a “Burden Bearer” year. I spent the year walking with a friend whose life came crashing down around her. I didn’t have the answers—but I knew where to go. And I knew some basic truths from walking with another friend in similar circumstances years ago. 

About 30 years ago, one of our pastors called me and asked me to counsel a woman walking through a divorce. I panicked.  I told the pastor I had no idea how to help—except to pray with her. I never met with her (I’m sure she decided to look for better help!). After that experience, God showed me I WAS equipped. I’d been a believer for 30 years, had been in the Word, and had the Holy Spirit as my teacher. I told Him then that if he gave me an opportunity, I would help—and learn.  The next week, He dropped an opportunity in my lap! And boy!!  Did I (we) learn!! We never quit walking together. 

I’ve had many (shorter) opportunities to bear other people’s burdens through the years; but in 2024, God asked me to walk closely with another friend and bear her heavy burdens. It was familiar…but also very different. And I’ve learned I still have so much to learn—but I have a very willing and capable Teacher!

God told us to “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2. Don’t you think if we all bore someone’s burdens, there would be so much less anxiety in our culture? You don’t have to have all the answers.  You just have to care—and step in and walk beside them. And you have to listen to your Teacher and help the other person pursue Truth! That’s it. Walk, pray, listen, guide them to Jesus. Be a faithful, loving, and consistent friend. Have I done it perfectly? Oh no! My flesh has come out and the person I was walking with had to remind ME of truth!  But that’s exciting—to see someone grow! God never intended for us to have all the answers. He does. 

We can make 2025 better for someone else. Will you be a Burden Bearer? The amazing thing is that you can even do this long distance. Use that phone for a good purpose—be a burden bearer. It just takes a “yes!” God will take it from there.