It’s rare when someone asks me to help carry a bag or box or package for them. But I am almost always happy to help.

However, I am frequently asked to help carry someone else’s emotional “baggage”. And I realize that I am almost never happy to help with that.

When sitting on a plane, I put on my headphones so I don’t have to listen to the person next to me talk about why they are traveling, what they are worried about or excited about.

When I’m in a store and someone tries to strike up a conversation with me, I smile and try not to engage lest they mistakenly think I would enjoy hearing about what or who they are shopping for and why.

Even with friends as we gather to play tennis, I get annoyed if there is too much chit chat between games.

For an introvert like me, listening is a burden. And when the story I’m listening to is upsetting, sad, or frustrating, it’s a heavier burden.

“Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭6‬:‭2‬ ‭CSB‬‬

But listening is loving, kind, and generous. Listening is exactly what Jesus modeled for me during His time on earth. He listened to people. He heard their problems. He cared.

I can’t imagine Jesus turning away and putting headphones on when He sees a leper approaching. That is not the Jesus I read about in the Bible.

And it shouldn’t be me either.

Dear God,

Please forgive me for my selfish habit of keeping to myself to protect myself from other people’s burdens. I trust you to give me the strength to bear them. Remind me to open myself to people I encounter and to be ready to listen and to help, if only with an encouraging smile and a patient demeanor.