There’s a phenomenon that I have experienced to an extreme and frequent degree in Seattle. Two or more cars pull up to a four-way stop intersection and get stuck there because each person tries to let the other person go first. One person waves the other forward. But that person shakes their head and waves the first person forward. This goes on for a while, neither moving. Then they both start to go but stop again when they see the other car move. Then they start with the waving again. It takes a while before anyone makes it past those intersections.

In that scenario, no one wants to be a selfish taker. They both want to be the magnanimous giver. It seems kind and generous, in theory, but in practice it is a mess. Eventually someone will get so frustrated they will stomp on the gas and lurch through the intersection at a reckless speed. And sometimes it even leads to accidents.

This can happen in our daily lives as well. As a follower of Jesus, my goal is to love and care for the needs of others. Sometimes so much so that my own needs get ignored. My pride insists on being the giver, not the taker. If that goes on for a long time, eventually I will get frustrated, overwhelmed, and fly off in an unhealthy direction.

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

You’ll notice that it says to carry “one another’s” burdens. It doesn’t say I should carry “everyone else’s” burdens. Sometimes, the healthiest thing for me to do is to allow someone else help me carry my burden.

Asking for help is part of being a follower of Jesus too. We are a community. A community breaks down when the giving always comes from one place. The giving and taking, the needing and providing, must be shared for things to run smoothly.

If you feel stuck, ask for help. Being able to help others can be a big blessing. Don’t be stingy with that blessing. Take turns, and we’ll all be able to move forward.

Dear God, thank you for the reminder that, in your kingdom, I can always ask for help. Teach me how to be generous while also being humble enough to admit when I need help and to accept it graciously when it is offered.