Learn from Jesus and Find Rest
Some memories are forever etched in my brain. Even though it has been over thirty years, I vividly remember all the details of giving birth to our two children. While in labor, I repeated the following verse over and over:
Come to me all who labor and are heavy burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble of heart; and you shall find rest for your soul. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30
I laugh at my interpretation back then. Because the verse says, “Come to me all who labor,” I equated it to giving birth! Thankfully my maturity and Biblical understanding has expanded since then! However, I did get the essence of the verse right, Learn from Jesus and Find Rest.
Jesus’ Burden is Light
I often come back to Matthew 11:28-30 when my heart is heavy and troubled. Jesus says His burden is light. In Him, I can find rest for my soul. But how is that possible? Does Jesus have any idea what I’m experiencing? My current struggle isn’t a light burden! Surprisingly, we find answers in the symbolism of an ancient farm tool.
Being Connected to Jesus
A yoke is a farm tool, most commonly found in Middle Eastern and African countries. It is a wooden bar that joins two oxen or water buffalos together at the neck, to effectively plow a field or carry heavy loads. The idea is that two are stronger than one. If the animals can learn to work as a team, they become a powerful source.
Spiritually speaking, Jesus calls me to be yoked with Him. He asks me to join my life with His. When I am connected to Jesus, He gives me balance, stability, and direction. Jesus doesn’t expect me to go through life alone, but in sync with Him, my all-powerful God and Savior.
Learn from Jesus and Find Rest
Consequently, when Jesus calls me to be yoked with Him, He is saying:
Come with me
Get away with me
Walk with me
Work with me
Watch how I do it
Keep company with me
And you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.
Wow! Why wouldn’t I want to be connected with Jesus?
Watch this interesting 3-minute video entitled, “My yoke is easy and my burden is light.”https://youtu.be/_XkiENhE9y4?si=QEr8lIMDwGpbQiUL
Prayer
Dear Jesus, I can be stiff-necked and obstinate because I want to do things my way. Help me set aside my pride, be your student, and enjoy rest. Amen.
Questions to Consider:
- Where do you find comfort when you are tired and weary?
- Are you yoked with Jesus? How do you know?
