CARRY EACH OTHER

Galatians 6:2

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

Today we will pause to sing and reflect on the tender Christmas Hymn sung about the tender baby Jesus.

Away in a Manger no crib for a bed,

The little Lord Jesus lay down his sweet head,

The stars in the sky look down where he lay

The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.

Be near me Lord Jesus I ask thee to stay,

Close by me forever and love me I pray.

Bless all the dear children, in thy tender care,

And take us to heaven to live with thee there.

The lyric that is closest to our hearts today:

Bless all the dear children, in they tender care!

Yes Lord! Bless the dear children and their families and friends in Newtown Connecticut and those around the entire world who are suffering and grieving.

How can we help those who have lost a loved one at this time?

How can we carry each other?

1. Acknowledge their loss.

2. Expect emotions and tears 

3. Give many opportunities for those hurting to talk about the loss.

4. Tenderly hug the hurting ones and find helpful things to do for them

Psalm 34:18

“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Psalm 102:1-2

“Hear my prayer, O Lord; let my cry for help come to you. Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress.”

Psalm 4:1

“Answer me when I call to you, O my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; be merciful to me and hear my prayer.”

2 Chronicles 20:12b

“We don’t know what to do so we fix our eyes on you.”

I highly recommend a resource for you during your grieving time or if you are the friend or loved one of someone who is hurting. The author is June Hunt and the book title is Counseling Through Your Bible Handbook. This book is an indispensible Guide filled with Biblical hope for the hurting.

Now is the best time to call on the Lord Jesus Christ in prayer.

As Christ came at Christmas to save the world and one day carry the sin of the world to the cross, may we as His followers carry each other’s burdens for His glory.

Join me and fall to our knees in prayer for the world that is lost and the innocent ones who are under attack.