“Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, 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 comfortable, and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30, New American Standard Bible).

Jesus said these words in response to hostility and resistance against His ministry. John the Baptist had been imprisoned by Herod for preaching his message of repentance and now struggled with doubt. Therefore, he sent some followers to Jesus seeking reassurance (Matthew 11:2-6). In response, Jesus praised John, saying that there was nobody born of women greater than him (v. 11). Yet, “from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has been treated violently, and violent men take it by force” (v. 12).

People still resist Jesus and His kingdom, responding with hostility and doubt. Nevertheless, some people received the message. People still reject the Gospel. On the other hand, some continue to receive the message of salvation.

Jesus invites all to come to Him. He offers rest and eternal life to our souls.

If you are weary and burdened by life and sin, come to Jesus, and He will give you rest. Take His yoke upon you and learn from Him, for He is gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your soul. His yoke is easy and comfortable, and His burden is light.

Is there anything holding you back from following Jesus? Are you willing to receive His yoke and enter His kingdom?

Copyright © 2023 Michael E. Lynch. All rights reserved.