I grew up on a farm where hard work was the norm. Muscles became cramped and chores seemed endless. When we needed a break, we often leaned against the closest fence. It propped us up while we drank cold water,  wiped our faces and wondered how much longer it was until it was time to stop for the day.

  

Just like those fences, good friends support us during trying times. We can depend on them always to be there – firm, steadfast, secure.

  

That’s what Aaron and Hur did for Moses. When Moses grew weary, they held up his hands so that they ‘remained steady till sunset’. They stayed with him, never wavering, until he completed his task of making sure the Israelites were  victorious.

  

Examples like these and other men and women of the Bible prompt me to ask, ‘Do I allow others to lean on me when they’re weak?’ As God’s family we can ask ourselves, ‘Do we offer a place for people to catch their breath before they move on? Do we provide a moment of respite when they think their task will never end?’ We can resolve to prop one another up when life gets  tough.

  

As we are there to prop up those around us, we can rely on God’s strength to support us when life gets  tough.

Prayer: Dear God, help us be vessels of your strength as we extend our hands in support of one another. Amen