Devotional

“For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” —Matthew 11:30 

 Burdened? Overwhelmed? Stressed?  

 When life weighs us down, the first inclination we have is to ask God for relief. We are told elsewhere in scripture, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).  

 But a careful look at the invitation of Matthew 28 reveals that here, Jesus isn’t saying “cast your burden on me,” but rather “join me.” Jesus invites us to join Him in His yoke and walk together.  

 In modern times and settings, the concept of a yoke may be foreign. The yoke was a familiar apparatus to Jesus’ initial audience. It is an instrument that couples two animals together for a shared burden or task. 

 God doesn’t desire to simply remove life’s burdens from you, but to use them in drawing you closer to Him. The immediate context makes it clear—this is a learning, growing process: “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” (Matthew 11:29). 

 Closer to Him, the weight or affliction we face begins to shift from our own shoulders alone to His. The pressures may not immediately disappear, but you will find rest in Him.  

 The yoke of Jesus symbolizes discipleship, walking with Him. Have you accepted His invitation? The load you are carrying today, and this week—are you trying to bear it alone?  

 My prayer for this week: 

Father, I am weary. I am overwhelmed. My soul needs rest. I am comforted by your word, by your promise. I want to accept the invitation to take your yoke upon me and learn from you. I want to trust in you. I want to walk beside you. Help me, Lord.