Matthew 11:28

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” ~ Matthew 11:28


These days, months, of COVID-19 have wearied us, sometimes to breaking point. We were not meant to be separated from each other, and our world has had to do a lot of separating. The onset of the vaccine has given many people hope, but even that will take many months before all are protected, and there is a worry for those countries which are too poor to order much of it for their people. We are weary and burdened by financial issues, job losses, rent and mortgage payments which are overdue for some due to the effects of COVID-19. Many may have overburdened themselves with gift giving this Christmas and think of how they may pay off their debt for that on top of all they may owe. Then when we look around at those that become sick with this disease, and the rise of infections, as well as now the new strain of COVID-19, how can anyone find rest for the weight they carry in burdensome worry? Yet, here Jesus calls us away from our burdens, away from all that worries and causes us to just want to crawl into bed and stay there forever. “Come to me,” he says to us. He is ready to save us, he is ready to give relief to our distressed minds. This and the verses which surround it are called the Great Invitation, with the invitation extending to all that are weary and burdened. Christ was appealing to all that were downtrodden, despised, and rejected. But not only was the invitation for those who felt this way, for all people were invited to come to him for peace and redemption, to take on the yoke of Christ. He will give rest, and in him, one will find that great unburdening of soul, mind, and heart. Christ is meek and humble, providing sympathy where sympathy is needed, love abounding, and understanding which is above our understanding. A vaccine may bring aid, but only in Christ will one find true hope and peace.  

Pastor Julia

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