Dearly Beloved in Christ,

Our independent spirit is a good thing as a nation that cherishes our freedom from another country's tyranny, but as individuals, that independent spirit can create unnecessary burdens, and a sense of self-sufficiency that is markedly contrary to the Gospel message. As Christians we are to give up our independence and place ourselves under the lordship of Christ.  We are to becomes slaves of a good and benevolent Master who we can trust implicitly.

And yet how often do we carry heavy burdens by ourselves, stumbling under their weight, pushed to the limits of our endurance, weary, worn out with the fatigue that comes from shouldering alone that which the Lord would take from us.  What is your burden?  Worry about the present, anxiety about the future, worry about the past - broken relationships, health issues, financial troubles, loneliness, grief ...

Here is the invitation: "come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens."
Here is the promise: "I will give you rest."

Paradoxically it seems that we are to receive this rest by exchanging one burden for another: "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."

The heavy burdens that we bear alone are to be exchanged for the much lighter burden of the love and presence of our gentle and humble Christ.  We are to be yoked to him - tethered to him - and rest there in his love.

Here is our Lord's personal invitation and promise to you:  "Come to me ... take my yoke upon you ... learn from me ... I will give you rest."  Will you accept the invitation and receive the promise?

In His Peace, Grace, and Love,
Rev'd Sarah+