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LENT REFLECTIONS (DAY 21)

All who are weary is the theme for our reflection.  To be weary is to feel or show extreme tiredness, especially as a result of excessive exertion or application of mental or physical force and effort.

Jesus makes a clarion call to all who are weary to come to Him. Jesus uses the analogy of an ox which serves the purpose of a plowing tractor in the ancient times. The ox was yoked with a plowing equipment and used to plow or till the land for farming. Often the farmer or operator of the ox overuse the ox and even when the ox is tired they continue to yoke them for more burdensome task. Jesus likens an ox which is yoked to those who are being oppressed or yoked by life’s challenges  and for that matter have become weary. He yearns with compassion to give these weary people rest. For this reason, Jesus gives us the assurance that “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”  (Matthew 11:28)

What does Jesus offer the weary fellow who responds to the call to come to him? It must be well understood that coming to Jesus does not mean we shall have less burdensome, a challenge- free or stress-free life. The good news is that Jesus grants us salvation and treats us with love and dignity. Our weariness shall yield gains and results. Our struggles in life shall not be in vain but will be purposeful in Christ. It is for this reason Jesus assures us that like oxes we must “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 11:29-30). In other words, all who are weary and have hitherto been yoked with oppression, worries, frustrations and disappointments in life, Jesus is inviting us to come to Him. The burden of His yoke does not lead to despair and destruction but even as we work for Him we shall find satisfaction and rest. He is the gentle Master and the burden of his yoke is light. Lent season offers us the opportunity to take up the yoke of Christ and like oxes become His servants. When we give our lives to Jesus and serve him diligently, His grace is ever sufficient and we have eternal life and resting place for our weary souls. Shalom.

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, our weary and wretched souls find solace and comfort in your bosom. Use us for your glory and may we find peace and perfect rest in you. Amen

Jean-Paul Agidi (Rev)