Come to me, all you that are weary, and are carrying heavy burdens, 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

These words were spoken by Jesus to his disciples.  He has called the 12 to follow, and eventually, to “Go and make disciples.”  Soon after this promise, John The Baptist is slain by the cruel King Herod.

If I am asked to share one of my favorite scriptures, this clear statement and promise of protection is up there with the most comforting.  We all are living in the midst of a worldwide pandemic.  Make no mistake about it, this coronavirus is deadly, threatening, frightening, and is happening all around the world.  We are also living in a world where, not only are so many perishing of the virus, but the bottom has fallen out of our economy.  Unemployment is skyrocketing.  All of this reality is causing great anxiety, not only for our children but also for many of us adults, especially us ‘fragile’ adults.

The most disturbing aspects of his time, for me, is that many die alone, without the comfort of loved ones by their side.  I have friends who have fallen victim to this necessary caution and this saddest of circumstances.

The one item that we do have is time.  I called a friend today.  My first question was, “What are you doing?”  She responded “nothing.”  That is an exaggeration, but  we do have time to think, time to write,  time to clean out the garage, time to pray, time to call on  friends, time to call on Jesus, the one who promised rest for the weary, comfort to the dying, and eternal life to all who believe in him.

Lord Jesus, show yourself to me today.  Remind me that you carry the yoke with me. You are the Way for the lost. You are the Bread of life.  Let me never forget the promise, “I am with you ALWAYS to the end of the age.   COME LORD JESUS, COME. 

Would you consider writing a devotion? If so, contact Karen Medford, kmedford@redeemer.org for more information.