Lenten Devotional Day Thirty-One
Don’t you love the new-life evidence of spring? That eager new green color on the trees, and flowers coming up from what appeared to be hardened dead ground. All of it conveys such hope. I am missing this lovely season on my mountain in Tennessee. You definitely have to look harder for shades of green in Florida, but they are there. That new green on the trees is impossible to detect on the beach, but drive just a little inland and you can spy the newness.
In March of 2015, I chaperoned a springtime field trip to Mount Vernon. It was delightful to walk around Washington's beloved property with its sixteen-foot ceilings, windows galore, and thirteen fireplaces.
But we didn't just tour the home, we spent some time down by the river's edge where they have a working "Pioneer Farm." The farmer, pictured above, carefully explained the purpose of the yoke, demonstrating how the oxen work as a team. He said, "It simply keeps them together." How do you think that concise explanation connects to the words of Jesus?
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30
Could it be, like those oxen at Mount Vernon, that the purpose of the yoke is simply to keep us together with Jesus? Do we sometimes make it more complicated than it should be? Watching the oxen it was clear that when one went left, the other went left. One went right, the other right. They went forward and backward together. It is so simple!
Maybe we just need to put our stubborn heads in the yoke each morning and let Jesus lead the way. He is gentle and loving, and He willingly lightens the load.
Digging Deeper:
Where are you stubborning refusing Jesus’ leading? Do you believe He can steer you in the wrong direction?
What burden are you “heavy laden” about right now? Do you believe He can give you rest?