Scriptures: Galatians 6:2 (ESV) – “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

Psalm 133:1 (ESV) – “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity.”

Message: Have you ever seen the movie “A Man Called Otto”?  As you would expect, the movie was about a man named Otto.  Otto had recently lost his wife, had been forced into retirement, and had become cranky and cynical about life.  In fact, he didn’t want to live any longer and was making plans to join his wife. 

On what he plans to be his last day on earth, new neighbors move in across the street.  They needed help.  From here, a pattern, and a friendship, ensues.  A new planned last day for Otto, becomes another way of life, responding to the needs of those living around him, which interferes with his original “last day” plan.  Over time, Otto and his new neighbors become like family.  Not only that, but Otto discovers there are other neighbors that need help too.  Before you know it, Otto is an active, even happy, part of the neighborhood.  He has rejoined life.  You also see the neighborhood benefit from Otto becoming a part of them again (no spoilers, you’ll have to watch for yourself).

We have all heard that we should help others.  However, the movie would have been much shorter, and sadder, if his new neighbor, Marisol, had not asked for help.  Actually, she rather insisted on it.  Asking for help from others to share our burdens is an important part of living in community, and dwelling in unity.  It is just as important as providing our help to others.  This movie is a powerful reminder to all of us.  It is easy to look for ways to help others, and to feel good when we are able to make a difference.  The harder part of that balance is for us to be willing to ask for help from others to share our burdens.  This allows others to be blessed, by sharing their blessings and gifts through helping us.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for loving us.  Thank You for guiding us into community with each other.  May You help us to not only be willing to help, but also to be willing to share our burdens and our need for help with others, so that we and others may experience Your full blessing of what community means.  Amen.

Dave and Lori Nadler

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