Thursday, January 16

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2020

[Jesus speaking] "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)

In a world overwhelmed with loneliness, grief, hurt, anger, and every other burden under the sun, Jesus invites us simply to come.  He draws us to Himself, promising to bring "rest for your souls."  Coming under His authority — His yoke — brings freedom and rest for the soul.

In our minds, we may prioritize other goals for finding rest.  We might believe that rest will emerge from having certain things or being free of certain responsibilities.  For Jesus, rest flows from centering our lives on His purposes and becoming His disciple.

The "yoke" He mentions, it calls to mind the physical element that allows animals to work together without hurting themselves.  Yokes allow harmony in the force provided by oxen and prevent accidents.  Similarly, for rabbis, the yoke referred to a mode of discipleship, essentially saying:  "Let's pursue a godly life together.  I will share what I've learned so that you may experience fullness and flourishing too."

In addition to serving as our King and Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ calls us as our Rabbi.  He wishes to impart truth so that we may imitate Him.  His yoke (teaching) is not burdensome"; rather, it brings wholeness and flourishing.  How could you welcome His yoke more fully into your life?

Lord Jesus, we welcome Your invitation to come unto You.  Thank You for Your promise to bring rest and freedom.  Teach us from Your Word and make us into the men and women You would like us to be.  Help us to surrender all to You.  We love You and thank You for leading us.  In Jesus's mighty Name, amen.