This school year the children who attend the Toronto City Mission after school “Kids in Community” program will learn about many of God’s wonderful promises made to us. One such important promise is that God is the provider of rest.
Matthew shares with us in chapter 11:28-29: “Come to me, all you 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.”
we desire to share with the children that Jesus came to heal and lift up those who were suffering and experiencing pain and discomfort.
This is a wonderful reminder Matthew teaches not only to the children at our programs but to us as well. This is an open invitation from our Redeemer Jesus. Regardless of our plight in life, if we are worn-out, drained and struggling, He promises to give us rest during these very fragile times.
I am excited our Outreach Workers will have the opportunity to communicate to the children the wonderful truth that Jesus promises that when they are troubled, confused, tired, hurt, unhappy or anxious, if they turn to Him, He will help them and give them rest. Further, we desire to share with the children that Jesus came to heal and lift up those who were suffering and experiencing pain and discomfort. What a wonderful promise we are blessed to share!
In verse 29 the “yoke” mentioned is a wooden or iron frame which joins two oxen for the purpose of pulling a cart. Here, Jesus lovingly invites us to share the burden of our troubles, doubts, and fears with Him, as he is always willing to help us cope with and manage them. This is an open invitation communicated to us by Jesus who is forever “gentle and humble in heart”.
Finally, the invitation to “come to me” is a promise from Jesus and encompasses no boundaries or restrictions. His promise is not to turn anyone away. There is no need to stand in the distance because Christ calls ALL to draw close to Him just as we are. For He alone can lift the heaviness of our lives which weighs down our burdened hearts. He alone can heal the broken-hearted and set the captive free from the hefty burden of our troubles and difficulties. And His invitation promise is open to ALL who will simply believe in His name.
We are so encouraged and blessed by God’s promise of providing us rest! Please keep our Outreach Workers in your prayers as they share this incredibly important message to the children who attend Toronto City Mission programs.
May you always find rest in God’s loving promises!
Amen.