Happy Wednesday! It is April 24, 2024. One of the great dangers of success is that we think we had a part in it. Our fingerprints cover the plastic trophy, and we, like many, get addicted to affirmation. Then, wanting more, we take on duties, responsibilities, and concerns that are not ours to take… only to end up with a discomforted heart. Today, Jesus puts out a refreshing “welcome mat” and invites us in. Read on …
Today's Reading:
1 Samuel 28,29; Psalm 109; Matthew 11
Scripture
“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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)
Observation
Jesus puts out a welcome mat… an invitation that is neither taxing nor unbearable. Although I have seen the dark side of the Church and have been blemished by fallen humanity, I know that there is rest and peace in the ways of God.
The Lord knows what we can handle, so when the assignments begin to blister my soul and sully my spirit, I know it’s time to get back to Jesus, “Pure and Simple.” It’s time to return to the Vinedresser and allow Him to trim my branches so that I can be fruitful once again.
Application
I am realizing that if the burden is too great, it may not be His. It most likely is mine … responsibilities He did not ask me to take, duties He did not assign, and afflictions He did not delegate. The symptoms of this misappropriation are worry, discomfort, and the absence of peace. However, sometimes I think I am the one “from whom all blessings flow.”
- Only I can fix it.
- Only I can get it done.
- Only I can keep things running.
Only I …
Prayer
Father, today I am refreshed by the realization that Your ways are not burdensome. And when they begin to feel that way, guide me back to You, the Vinedresser. Protect me from the malady of “Only I …” In front of Your door is always a Welcome Mat. Outside Your door, there always lies a Welcome Mat. I accept Your invitation, where even amidst the crowd, I can once again find rest for my soul.
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