In the midst of our hectic and fast-paced lives, Jesus offers an enduring invitation in Matthew 11:28-30 (GNT): "Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke and put it on you, and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit; and you will find rest. For the yoke I will give you is easy, and the load I will put on you is light."

The imagery of a yoke in the context of discipleship carries profound significance. In Jesus' time, a yoke was a wooden beam placed across the shoulders of oxen, binding them together as they worked in tandem. Disciples willingly took on the yoke of their teacher, not as a burden, but as a means of learning, guidance, and shared effort.

If you have discovered what is distracting you - and is a cover for anxiety, I encourage you to look away from it, sit at Jesus' feet, and take his yoke. Learn from him. He is gentle and humble in spirit. You will find rest.

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Prayer

Lord, I come to you, recognizing the weariness in my soul. I willingly take on your yoke, trusting that in learning from you, I'll find the rest my heart longs for. Help me embrace the gentle guidance of your teaching and experience the lightness of your burden. Amen.

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Reflection

1. In what areas of your life do you feel burdened and heavy-laden? How might taking on the yoke of Jesus bring rest to your soul?

2. Reflect on a mentor or teacher who has positively influenced your life. How did the relationship feel like a shared yoke, a journey of learning and growth?

3. Consider practical ways you can take on the yoke of Jesus in your daily life. How might this impact your perspective and actions?

Watch: Anxiety in Disguise

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