Come and Rest

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light”. Matt 11 v 28

What do we do with all that 2020 has thrown our way – death of loved ones, loss of jobs, loneliness, anger, realities of racism, stress, depression, the list goes on? Trying times have exposed some pretty dark and ugly truths about ourselves and our fellow beings. Restlessness fills us as we confront the truth that no amount of human effort can help us overcome these things. I would categorize 2020 as heavy laden, wouldn’t you?

Jesus was speaking to the people of first century, Rome-occupied cities and towns. They people were even more tired and burdened physically, emotionally and spiritually than we can imagine. It is in the midst of this that Jesus sends out an open invitation. “Come to me,” he says. To come to Christ means to trust him. He promises that in His care, there is rest. To take His yoke means to follow where He leads. In discipleship to Him, He promises a deeper understanding of this world. Why it is what it is? Where is it leading? What is your purpose today beyond your job, despite your health, and in the midst of a pandemic? Our souls need this rest that only the sovereign God can provide.

As we look to 2021 with hope and expectation, don’t let 2020 just slip away as the worst year of your life. Jesus’ invitation to come to Him, is still open. Let 2020 be a reminder of how much we need Him in our lives. Not as as a genie who grants wishes because that is not who He is. But as the One true savior who gives us rest in the midst of our troubles.

In these last few days of 2020 take the time to draw near to God. Pray and read your Bible. Come to Him and find rest for your soul.

New Year blessings, PUYB readers.