Grace and peace to you in the name of our risen Savior!
“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
What am I to make of this current generation? That seems to be the essence of what Jesus is considering in Matthew 11:16-30. His observations are stark. The current mood of the people is restless, searching, and far from satisfied. They want a savior, but aren’t sure what that savior should look like or do. They are impatient, demanding, and deep down scared with uncertainty.
Jesus seems to lament and even grieve over this situation. Nothing is clearcut. The people don’t seem to recognize the arrival of God’s kingdom in their midst. They are too divided, too fearful to see who Christ really is. They only want something more, something else, a more convincing display of heavenly power, the kind, like they are used to seeing from kings and despots, only from God.
Jesus doesn’t give them these kinds of things. Instead, he gives them a curious invitation. He invites them to bring their burdens: worries, regrets, fears, their whole lives, and come to him—follow him. He will give them a special kind of rest and a new burden, a lighter burden that is God’s kingdom.
What are we to make of our current generation, with all our worries, fears, regrets, COVID19, and social unrest? Is our generation beyond redeeming, just out of reach of God’s saving grace. No. I don’t think so. We are no worse of than Jesus’ first followers. His invitation to follow and have rest remains with us today. The God who took on the cosmic powers of evil and death on the cross can bear the weight of our current situation. So, come and follow. Lay your burdens down before Christ and his church. May the sweet grace of Christ’s love heal and transform each of us and our world.
As we bear one another’s burdens, please don’t hesitate to contact me for pastoral care or for help. My number is: 814-279-5504.
Blessings and Health,
Pastor Matt
July 3, 2020
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