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.

Matthew 11:28-30

Have you ever felt tired or burdened, mentally or physically? Have you ever felt like it was impossible to keep braving through life during the unforeseen circumstances that accompany the task of being a human on this earth? Have you ever cried more tears than you thought possible? Have you ever wondered why this was happening and how much longer you’d feel this way?

Our brains conclude that if we work hard enough for our happi-ness and the happiness of others, maybe it will happen. We feel that if we throw our feelings to the side and get three jobs to keep feeding ourselves and our families, or if we ignore grieving the way we should, then all will be fine, or if we just drift between both parents acting as if all is normal then maybe it will be.

All this you’ve been enduring must be exhausting. The good news is that the joy Jesus provides is not earned, but given. Jesus sees you. He sees you in those dark moments when you are sitting by yourself crying or lying awake at night wondering if you put your faith in the right God. Jesus sees those darkest moments and to you He says, “Come to me…and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Jesus sees you in your pain, embraces you, and catches your tears until they are no more. Jesus’ love is the most constant thing in this life.

Prayer

Come Lord Jesus, quickly. Many of us are waiting and not one will be disappointed. I pray for Your holy hand to be with me, especially in my darkest times. Please help me take Your yoke upon myself and help me embrace the everlasting peace only You can provide.

Daily Reading: Proverbs 14

– Contributed by Betsy Petersen