Carry each other’s burdens,
and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2
I have a dog that really is displeasing. Each morning he growls at me. What do I want from him again! And when I bring him his fodder he grouses: what a swill! When I walk with him I have to keep the dog on short leash for he tugs and pulls and always wants to go in another direction, often to a place where a lot of dirt is. Sometimes he growls other people and even wants to bite them. Nevertheless I love him in spite of all that bad habits. But it is really difficult with him.
I have still another dog who greets me kindly in the morning asking me to scratch his fur and to play with him. And when I bring him to eat he seems to exclaim merrily: Nice, that you think of me! Never you forget or forsake me! And again my favorite food! Thank you! And when I go for a walk with him I can let him off the leash. Vivaciously he runs around and does not bark at other people. When I call him he immediately comes back. With this dog it is fun.
It is the same with God: With some people there are just difficulties. They totally ignore Him and do not listen when He wants to talk to them. They do not thank for their life, for the sun, for the rain, and all the wonderful things on earth. They grumble, argue with each other. It is really difficult with these people. They must be very short leashed in order not to bring them and other people in danger. His word says: "Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. Many are the woes of the wicked, but the Lord’s unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in Him." (Psalm 32:9f)
For these people the law applies. They need rules for everything. However, for those who love the Lord only the law of Christ is valid: Dwell in Me, remain in My love, love each other as Christ loved you, bear the burden of the next… In John 13-17 this gracious attitude is described in detail. Who lives in Jesus, has Jesus in his heart, fulfills His law. He will not lie, steel, murder, commit adultery … as long as he stays in Christ. These people are pleasing God! He blesses them abundantly and they love Him.
Thank You, Jesus, You live in me! Reign my heart that I walk on Your ways and not slide off on the way of sin. I follow You and You hold me that I can go happily through the day.
Bible reading today – Revelation 1: 9-20