In the final film of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, the hobbits Frodo and Sam enter Mordor to destroy the dangerous ring of power entrusted to Frodo. Frodo has borne this burden across hundreds of miles, suffering under its growing influence with every step. As the two hobbits climb the final mountain, Frodo collapses, unable to bear his burden further. Sam then kneels beside his friend, reminding him of their home and the joy that they shared there, but Frodo is unable to recall these distant comforts. Sam knows that he cannot take the ring, so instead he declares, “I cannot carry it for you … but I can carry you.” He lifts his friend on his shoulders and proceeds up the slope with Frodo and the ring on his back.

In a similar way, followers of Jesus bear one another’s burdens. We cannot always alleviate the suffering or worries of our sisters and brothers, but we can support them and share these burdens, offering encouragement against the temptation to quit.

By Joshua Hays from D365