Conquering DeathEsimerkki

Fear of Being a Burden

How does God invite me to turn my burdens over to Him?

Dying is never easy, especially when we feel that we are a burden to those who care for us. Often we maintain our sense of control by being caretakers. When we become the one who is to be taken care of, our roles are reversed, and we lose a sense of who we are. Perhaps the next step in our spiritual journey is to let others take care of us. Perhaps it is now our turn to learn to be dependent upon others as we recognize our dependence upon God. As the following Scriptures point out, learning to let go of our need for control and relying on God and others is another spiritual task that our ancestors in the faith had to learn as well.

Readings from the Old Testament

Moses accepts the wise counsel offered by his father-in-law, Jethro, about allowing others to participate in a decision-making process.

Exodus 18:17-19a

The psalm writers speak of depending on God who will bear the burden of all our troubles.

Psalm 62:1, 2, 5-8

Psalm 68:19

Be assured of God’s eternal presence.

Isaiah 60:19b, 20

Readings from the New Testament

Jesus invites you to turn your burdens over to him.

Matthew 11:28-30

The apostle Paul encourages all believers to comfort and help one another.

2 Corinthians 1:3-7

2 Corinthians 8:13-14

Galatians 6:2

The apostle Paul acknowledges the love and care that he received from others during his time of need.

Philippians 4:10-14

Be assured of God’s constant love.

1 Peter 5.7

Thoughts for Reflection

1. Can I allow my dependence upon others to remind me of my dependence upon God?
2. Can I let go of my pride so I can let others know that their care for me is appreciated?
3. Have I somehow thought that I should be an exception to everyone else who needs help from time to time?

Prayer

Good and gracious God, forgive me of my prideful self-reliance, my self-deception in thinking that somehow I really did not need the help of others or you. Help me find the relief of being able to relax into the care of others. Bless me and teach me in this next step of my spiritual journey. Amen.