Take A Break

Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV)

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.

Because of my experience, I’ve often worked in a pastoral team.  I’ve met folk arriving with invisible backpacks - struggles etched into their expressions. It’s a privilege to sit with them, to listen to their pain, fears, and hopes. Yet, there are moments when Jesus’ words echo within me: ‘My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ If I take those words literally, they often clash with life’s gritty reality.

Here’s the problem: We want righteousness, but obedience isn’t always easy: it’s compliance to another’s authority; it’s laying down our rights, surrendering ego. 

Sacrifice goes beyond surrender. It's about wielding our right to deprive ourselves. Imagine a coach urging rest, 'Take a break!' while you - the key player - persist, convinced the team’s fate rests on your shoulders. Sacrifice would mean choosing to accept the advice and deprive yourself of the right to play.

So, today, grant yourself permission to rest. Take a metaphorical ‘chill pill.’ It’s not weakness; it’s acknowledging we’re not Messiah God. Jesus, the real Messiah, he’s the shoulder-bearer, and he invites us to lean on him. His yoke - made with love - is tailor-made for our souls. Rely on the fact that he can carry the weight; we can’t.

When you’re tired and exhausted, remember: the One who flung galaxies into existence knows every beat of your heart. Imagine him saying, ‘Rest, I love you. It’s OK. Rest, for I am with you.’

Let go, release the need to be a superhero, and embrace being a human. Vulnerability leads to strength - the kind that can only be found in surrender and sacrifice.

At the end of the day, hear the invitation: ‘Come to me, weary ones, and find rest.’ It’s an oasis - a place where burdens become lighter, and grace flows.

Prayer – Father I actively choose to pause… now.