Matthew 11:28

New International Version (NIV)

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

For Meditation

I remember the period of unimagined disturbances in our church twelve years ago. A particular family made it their goal to invite me to their home after every challenging meeting to lunch and rest in their home. I treasured those moments for the calm they brought into my life. I was always refreshed by their hospitality, their matured review of the day’s activities, and their wise counsel each time. They have become my parents ever since, and our relationship continues to grow till today.

Jesus has sent out a better invitation to “all who are weary and burdened,” to come into His rest (Matt. 11:28). His shelter is perfect and provides comfort and security away from a harsh and demanding world that drives people like the taskmasters of Egypt. The world system piles heavy responsibilities to oppress and impoverish the poor. Ruthless competition abounds to stress the rich, among whom selfishness is a virtue, and the hard-charging partner is the hero. Wherever you turn, stress has become the silent executioner, bringing devastation and sorrow to untold number of families.

This is the condition Jesus invites us from. He has seen and experienced this carnage first hand in human flesh and circumstances. He has risen above its ravages and died to work salvation for us. He is now seated on the right hand of God in majesty – the position of ultimate power and authority. With love and empathy, He calls the down-trodden and weary to come and receive authentic rest from Him. It is a gracious invitation like no other, and is open to the rich as well as the poor, the marginalized and the well-positioned in society. It comes from the Prince of Peace and the Shepherd of all who accept His invitation in absolute trust. David testifies to this in the ageless Psalm 23. Paul assures us that all who come to Jesus by, “prayer and petitions, with thanksgiving” shall receive a peace that transcends all understanding to guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6-7).

1. Are you burdened by a load of care in this world?
2. Is the world order stressing you with its uncertainties?
3. Are the demands of your job or business reaching unbearable proportions?
4. Is your marriage breaking under this load; or is it keeping you from settling down into one?
5. Has real peace eluded you?

I pray you take Jesus’ challenge today and experience a peace and a refreshing you have never known before.

It is true, my friend! I have moved from where you are now, and have taken shelter in Christ and the rest only He can provide; and I can testify to its veracity and calm.

Taking the Jesus challenge today is a decision you’ll never regret.

Shalom