There are two words I hear religiously when I'm listening to the radio while driving. These two words seem to be the most popular words in the marketing lexicon; easy and simple. You know how it goes. A pleasant toned pitchman or woman tells you how easy and simple using their product or service will be. If there's any hint of Murphy's law, whatever could go wrong will go wrong, then we won't buy.

Sometimes I wish that life was that easy and simple. But would it be true to life or even life itself if it were easy and simple. When I hear these two words I find myself asking, "What are you trying to sell."

However, when I think of the word easy a Bible passage comes to mind.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 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.
-Matthew 11: 28-30

Sometimes this passage is used by good hearted people in an attempt to bolster the faith of the downtrodden; "God won't give you more than you can handle." However, the faithful often reply, "I know God won't give me anything I can't handle. I just wish he didn't trust me so much."

Jesus shared this teaching at what seemed to be an incredibly difficult time in his ministry. He constantly faced grousing and rejection as he shared the good news. Read Matthew 11 in its entirety for the context in which Jesus taught.

Jesus wasn't saying life is to be easy and simple. Rather, when we yoke (partner) with him in our difficulties we can experience peace and rest.

At JCPC, we provide Stephen Ministry support if you are feeling that life is getting the best of you. A Stephen Minister will partner with you in a fashion that you can unburden your heart and regain some peace and rest for your soul.

Prayer for Today

Thank you Father for the yoke of Jesus which is easy and lightens our burdens. Bring peace into my day and rest for my soul. Amen.