Devotional Thoughts Based on the Glory to God Hymnal

Matthew 11:28-30

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.

When I was young, my paternal grandparents welcomed my parents and me, my aunts, uncles, and cousins to enjoy Sunday dinner and afternoon with them. My grandmother loved to cook and always made certain that family favorite foods were on the table for members to enjoy. After lunch, it was the custom of my Uncle Don to retreat to a bedroom and enjoy a long Sunday afternoon nap.

Often travelers, upon arriving at their destination, wanted to rest a bit before a meal and engaging in various activities. A little nap can be restorative!

In our text for today, Jesus invites those who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens to come to Him. Jesus promises to give them rest. As soon as the rest is promised, Jesus invites them to take His yoke, but then He assures them that His yoke is easy and His burden in light.

We see Matthew 11:28-30 alluded to in the first stanza of “I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say”.

Listen:

I heard the voice of Jesus say, Come unto Me and rest; lay down, O weary one, lay down your head upon my breast. I came to Jesus as I was, so weary, worn, and sad; I found in Him a resting place, and He has made me glad.

Hearing all the disappointments, regrets, woes, and worries of the congregation can be difficult for a pastor, who does not break confidences. Fortunately, the pastor can pour these out to Jesus, who will accept them and give rest to the pastor so he or she can minister to others on another day.

Prayer

As pastors and as people, Lord, thank You for inviting us to cast our cares on You. Thank You too, for answering our prayers. Amen