eFollowingJesusFeb10 - Take my yoke (Matthew 11:28-30)

   When people in counseling are asked, "What one adjective describes how you feel?" the top answer is "Tired."  We feel like Atlas, weary from trying to carry the whole world on our shoulders.  Why would anybody want the additional load of religion and its heavy demands laid on top of all we're heaving around already?

   "Come to me; I will give you rest."  Connecting with Jesus isn't piling extra poundage on the schedule.  We can lay a lot of other things down; "He's got the whole world in his hands," so we don't have to tote it any longer.

   Jesus isn't saying his "yoke" is easy or undemanding.  But when our most zealous efforts are expended on something that matters, something true and going somewhere, we don't flag with exhaustion. 

   And we can rest.  God made provision for a merciful day of rest - and we can rest, since it isn't all up to me and my feverish activity.  We can rest in love and grace; the Lord of the universe is "gentle," lifting us up and bringing us home.

   Lord, I am coming to You heavy laden.  Give me rest.  I willingly take Your yoke.

James

james@mpumc.org

Here is the full text of Matthew 11:28-30 -   28: Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29: Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30: For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."  

The full eFollowingJesus series (thus far!) may be found on our web site.