It’s been a few months since I’ve posted here. As someone from Western North Carolina, my community and I have been grappling with the devastation left behind by Hurricane Helene. The loss has been unimaginable. Entire neighborhoods have been destroyed, livelihoods shattered, and some towns may never fully recover. Over the past few months, I’ve been working in disaster recovery with a non-profit group called Baptist on Mission. Along with numerous other non-profits, local churches, and volunteers from all across the country, we have come together to help those in need.
This has been a long journey—almost four months of non-stop effort—and many of us are weary. Yet, in the midst of this weariness, I’ve been reminded of the story in Exodus where Moses grew tired during the battle against the Amalekites.
In Exodus 17, Moses stood on a hill with the staff of God in his hands. As long as he kept his hands raised, the Israelites prevailed. But as his strength waned, the Amalekites began to gain the upper hand. Recognizing the importance of Moses’ raised hands, Aaron and Hur came alongside him. They found a stone for him to sit on and then stood on either side of him, holding up his hands until sunset. Because of their support, the Israelites were victorious (Exodus 17:10-13).
This powerful story beautifully illustrates the importance of mutual support in times of need. Just as Moses relied on Aaron and Hur to sustain him when he was too tired to continue on his own, we as Christians are called to support one another, especially during times of spiritual and emotional battles. Life can be overwhelming, and there are moments when our faith feels weak, our energy drained, and our spirits low. In these moments, the Christian community is meant to act like Aaron and Hur—holding each other up, sharing the load, and ensuring no one stands alone.
Scripture Reading
Exodus 17:12 (NIV): “When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset.”
Galatians 6:2 (NIV): “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV): “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
Reflection
The story of Aaron and Hur holding up Moses’ hands is not just about the battle—it’s about the community. Even a great leader like Moses experienced human limitations and needed others to step in. Their willingness to help ensured that the battle was won.
In the same way, the recovery efforts here in Western North Carolina have shown the power of community. So many people have come together—volunteers from near and far, non-profits, churches, and individuals. When one of us grew tired, others stepped in. When someone needed a word of encouragement, someone else was there to offer it. This collective effort reflects the essence of Christian fellowship: supporting each other in times of need.
Comparing to Christian Community
Carrying Each Other’s Burdens - Galatians 6:2 reminds us to "carry each other’s burdens." This means stepping in when someone is struggling—whether it’s with faith, personal challenges, or exhaustion. Just as Aaron and Hur physically supported Moses, we’re called to spiritually and emotionally support one another.
Encouraging and Building Each Other Up - 1 Thessalonians 5:11 calls us to “encourage one another and build each other up.” Words of encouragement and acts of kindness can be like the stone Aaron and Hur placed under Moses, providing strength and support for the weary.
Practical Support - Practical help—like rebuilding homes, sharing meals, or offering a listening ear—is another way to hold each other up. These acts of service are powerful expressions of God’s love.
The Power of Prayer - Prayer binds us together. By interceding for one another, we invite God’s strength and presence into our struggles. During these months of recovery, the prayers of others have been a lifeline for many of us.
Meditation and Application
Reflect on areas in your life where you feel weary, like Moses. Who could you reach out to for support?
Consider how you can be like Aaron and Hur for someone else. Is there someone in your life who needs encouragement or help?
Pray for God to give you a heart sensitive to the needs of others and to unite your community in love and support.
The story of Aaron and Hur lifting Moses’ arms is a timeless reminder of the power of community and mutual support. Here in Western North Carolina, we’ve experienced this firsthand. The recovery from Hurricane Helene has been a battle, but it’s one we’ve fought together. Churches, non-profits, and volunteers from across the nation have come together to hold up the weary, rebuild what was lost, and bring hope to those in despair.
Just as Moses could not stand alone, neither can we. By carrying each other’s burdens, offering encouragement, and supporting one another practically and spiritually, we fulfill the law of Christ. Together, we can stand strong in faith, no matter the battles we face.
Michael
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