At that time Jesus said, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him."

"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 11:25-30

What is the yoke that Jesus puts on us? It is God putting His arm around us. All we need to do is love Him, and give Him praise. We can’t do everything. In fact we can do very little. But with God, Jesus, and the Spirit, wonders can be done in us, and through us. God knew that we could never measure up to His standards, so He sent Jesus to this earth. Jesus obeyed the commands of His Father perfectly and He bore the punishment of death for our sins. As we humble ourselves and recognize our need for forgiveness, Jesus comes alongside of us. He places His yoke on us, freeing us from guilt and giving us His power to live a life that is pleasing to God.

God’s easy yoke

does not fit on a stiff neck.

Our Daily Bread – January 9, 2005