The Restful Burden Of Jesus

The title of this devotion might be confusing to many – Is there such thing as a burden, which is restful?

What is a yoke? The Collins Dictionary of English defines it as “a long piece of wood which is tied across the necks of two animals such as oxen, in order to make them walk close together when they are pulling a plough.” Usually a young, untrained ox is yoked together with a stronger, more experienced ox to train it in doing its job, which means that the young ox is restricted from doing what it wants to do and has to follow the guidance of the trained ox.

This Bible passage states that many of us are tired from the burdens we face regularly (perhaps difficult work expectations, family problems or issues with self-identity) and only Jesus can give us rest. But here Jesus does not say that he will make the problems gone instantly. Instead he calls us to take on his burden. His yoke. To put on Jesus’ yoke means that in faith, we take up the commitment to give up on our self-sufficiency, acknowledge his wisdom and our weakness, come to him and let him take full control of our life. In exchange, just like the stronger ox, he will walk and bear the burden along with us and help us every step of the way as we work to fulfil our duties.

The process will surely be challenging. Similar to the restricted, young ox, we also have to surrender our own sinful desires and obey Jesus’ commands. And along the way, maybe there are times when we are brought to despair as we fail repeatedly. However, there is no reason for us to give up, as he is “gentle and humble in heart”. He is The Great Teacher himself – the holy, powerful, all-knowing Son of God, yet full of love, grace and mercy. He never gives up on those who truly seek him. Therefore, even in the middle of troubles and failures, we can safely find rest in him, for his yoke is easy and his burden is light.

Thank you, Lord, that you patiently walk along with me in times of joy and difficulties. Please help me to surrender my life to you and faithfully commit to follow you. Amen.