“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”—Romans 12:15.

The Bible urges us to go through life together, sharing experiences with each other under various circumstances, whether good or bad. We were not created to live in isolation, but in community.

We can’t make the pain go away in times of tragic loss, but we can ease one another’s suffering by showing up and offering our condolences and hugs. Galatians 6:2 says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” One way we can show our love for our fellow human beings is to be there for them in their time of loss. Burdens are much lighter when they are shared.

When it comes to sharing life with others in light of Romans 12:15, I have found myself in both situations lately. I made four trips to funeral homes in a three day span to mourn with some friends who were grieving. I know that they would have done the same for me.

On the other hand, I have spent some time lately rejoicing with those who were rejoicing. I cheered for our local high school softball team, the Lewis County Lady Lions, as they won the district tournament. I stayed after the game to celebrate with players, parents, grandparents and other fans. Then on the drive home I found myself in a caravan of cars that were following the team bus, which was escorted by a police car. When we got to Vanceburg, the caravan was met by fire trucks and paraded through town, horns honking to celebrate the district championship.

A few days later I followed this team to the regional tournament, cheering them on to a first round win, a 12-inning marathon victory in the semi-finals and a thrilling win in the championship game. The celebration on the field and in the stands was long and loud. This was followed by another, even larger, caravan home.

As I write this, there is a community rally scheduled to take place at the school tonight, to celebrate the Lady Lions’ first ever trip to the state tournament. The rally will also be for Austin Howard, a local high school runner who will be competing in the 100-meter dash at the state meet this weekend. I plan to be there with many others in the community as we rejoice in the accomplishments of these young athletes and take pride in our home town. I look forward to rejoicing with a lot of friends and acquaintances who also want to share the joy of this winning experience.

Tomorrow, Lord willing, I will be in the stands at the University of Kentucky softball stadium, cheering for the Lady Lions of Lewis County. Hopefully, tomorrow’s game will bring about another chance to rejoice with others. Let’s always remember that, good times or bad, life is meant to be shared together.