The mark of Christian community is how we care for each other.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“Carry each other’s burdens,
and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Galatians 6:2 New International Version

Deb, has the most wonderful backyard. Those of you who subscribe to my Praying With the Eyes Facebook page have seen pictures that she’s posted. I don’t know how she finds time to take care of her garden.

Portland, Oregon

Deb’s husband, Dan, passed a number of years ago. Deb and Dan both loved to garden. Believe me, there have been plenty of challenges for Deb to keep up her garden without Dan.

The day that Dan died is forever etched in my memory. It was a Sunday morning, and as we were singing a hymn our Director of Christian Education gave me the news. I still miss Dan but not as much as Deb.

God has called us into community that we might carry each other’s burdens just as this tricycle bears the weight of these succulents. Living in community isn’t easy. Along with bearing each other’s burdens we put up with each other’s sins.

Though I remember walking with Deb through Dan’s death I also recall many times when Deb has walked with Janice and me through our personal struggles. That’s what we do in the body of Christ.

By the way, I asked Deb how many roses she cares for and she’s lost track.

Copyright Douglas P Brauner