Scripture Verses that caught my attention today: Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 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. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Observation: Everybody likes these verses. Yet it is their context that gives them the even greater authenticity. Earlier in this chapter, at least according to Matthew, we are told that Jesus knew that he was being accused of being a glutton and a drunkard. A few verses after this passage he is accused of breaking Sabbath laws. So Jesus was not in a comfortable place. He was pretty much under attack. It is this context that Jesus offers the comforting words of verses 28-30 quoted above.

Application: These words have been a source of comfort for many a person over the course of a couple millennia. It’s always nice to read, hear, and/or simply consider these words and take them to heart. There is the sense that these words alone are sufficient for the challenge of the day.

For me, however, what gives these words their transformative power is the context out of which they were spoken. Jesus was not having an easy time. Yet he offers himself to those around him as a source of refuge.

Last night a couple people in my family were tuned into one of those vocal-audition-coaching shows. One of the coaches told one of the candidates that he loved him so much that he would die for him (or something close to that affect).

Really??? However well-intended, somehow those words seem a little hollow.

Jesus offers something much deeper. His support is not dependent on our ability to prove ourselves worthy. Instead, in the midst of his own turmoil he offers an authentic morsel of absolute promise—rest for our souls.

Prayer: Lord, it doesn’t seem like it was a very restful time for you. People were upset with you left and right. Still you offered yourself. And it would appear that your offer still stands. For that we give you thanks and praise. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

(Readings today included: 1 Samuel 28-29, Psalm 109, Matthew 11)