I am tired.
The last few weeks have been a combination of whirlwind and roller coaster. Hubby and I made a too-quick visit to Saskatchewan where we were thrilled to celebrate Thanksgiving and my Very Important Birthday with family and friends.
But while there we also learned of a terrible traffic accident that took several lives and severely injured my uncle and his wife. That news came the day after we were told that a dear friend's season of remission from active cancer had ended.
Back at home, we've been burdened by more news of cancer and other dire health issues in dear ones, hopes raised and dreams delayed. Soaring heights and debilitating lows. You know - Life.
But it wears me out.
This morning I asked God what He wanted me to do today, and His whisper in my heart said, "Rest."
That brought to mind the verses above. I absolutely love the explanation of Jesus' invitation from an old farmer. Apparently when an untrained ox begins to work, he is yoked with an older, stable, and well-trained animal. The tutor ox carries the burden with the young one merely keeping pace.
So in Jesus' illustration, He takes our burdens, puts them on His own back - that beaten and scarred back - puts His arm around our shoulders, and leads us, step by step. Into His life and His rest.
Isn't that beautiful?