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An Invitation Addressed to Those Carrying Life’s Burdens
An Invitation Addressed to Those Carrying Life’s Burdens
Mike Willis
Several who are reading our posts have written requesting prayers for such things as health problems, financial worries, depression, housing needs, etc. It is obvious that many are struggling under the burdens of life.
One of Jesus’s most tender statements is His invitation to those who were worn down from carrying life’s burdens: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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” (Matt. 11:28-30).
In 1993, my friend Craig Roberts wrote a short song titled, “Are You Weighed Down?” which points men to Jesus as a source of strength.
Are you weighed down with cares of life?
Weak in temptation, faint in strife?
Lean on the Lord to help you through;
Almighty God will strengthen you.
Are you alone and far away?
Find a calm place to sing and pray.
For in the midst are gathered two:
All-present God is there with you.
Are you afraid of coming years?
Filled with uncertain joys and tears?
Blessing or burdens, great or few—
All-knowing God knows best for you.
(Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs, 389).
For two millennia, people who have been suffering the burdens of life have found rest and peace by answering Jesus’s invitation. You also can find rest and the peace that passes all understanding (Phil. 4:7).
