“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.” (Matthew 11:28-29 ESV)
It’s Labor Day long weekend here in Canada; a time to rest and rejuvenate. But physical rest is simply not enough because as spiritual beings, spiritual rest is just as important. “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest,“ Jesus promised His hearers who were carrying the heavy burdens of laws and traditions imposed by the religious institution of the time. Listen to the same scripture passage in The Message paraphrase: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly” (vv.28-30). Jesus assured them – and us – of His rest.
We’re still seeking that same kind of rest, but try to find it anywhere and in anyone other than Jesus. But what was true thousands of years ago is still true today: we won’t find real rest without Him. He is the only one who promised a rest that no one else can give, just like He promised an inner peace that only He can give (John 14:27). Take His word and come. Let your soul find its rest in Jesus.
Rising with the Son 