How heavy are the burdens youre carrying? Are you weighed down with a load of guilt, financial woes, an abusive husband, or the death of a child? Jesus says: My yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Mat. 11:30)
That almost sounds like a nice clich, eh? You may be thinking: Yeah right! You dont know the problems Ive got! I do know where youre coming from. In fact I used to have a mental picture of oxen with heavy wooden yokes strapped across their necks attached to iron shackles, pulling heavy machinery. Even a light yoke seems like a heavy contraption! Slaves burdened with yokes were forced into heavy labor, directed where to go, and kept on a tight rein by their masters.
Then I got a revelation! My husband Jack used to complain out loud about any problems he faced. I was the quiet one in the family. I would pray about them and go about my day bowed down under the weight. But, Jack? Oh… how he used to infuriate me! First hed aggravate the situation by his mutterings. But then, after his daily morning walk with the dog, he would come home refreshed, laughing and in a great mood! The problems were still there, so how could he suddenly be so happy? You know, I...