Considering Yokes
May 15, 2014 | My Jottings
I don’t have a lot of spare time these days, as Michael’s cares have increased. He’s not usually able to walk without assistance, so I use a gait belt to help him get around — from our bed to the dining room table, from the dining room table to his recliner in the living room, from the living room to the bathroom, etc. I have to be careful even leaving the room he’s in, because he forgets that he’s having trouble walking, and sometimes gets up and stumbles. He fell a couple of days ago, but I was right there with him and was able to grab the belt and keep him from falling hard; I just sort of lowered his butt to the ground and we both ended up giggling about it a bit. It could have been a lot worse, I realize.
But I do have a lot of time to think, and I’m endeavoring to keep my mind from traveling down the rough roads of selfishness and despair, so on a good day, I think on a scripture or two. Here’s what’s on my mind today, the blessed words of Jesus Himself from Matthew 11:28-30:
“Come to me, all 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.” (ESV)
And the same verses from The Message:
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
Edith, pictured above, sure seems to be able to live out the commands of Christ. She’s living freely and lightly — she has always been a Hallelujah Hound.
Me, I’m still learning about this. I think the key to this passage has to do with the words “gentle and lowly in heart.”
Have a blessed day, dear friends….
That passage in the Message translation instantly refreshed my spirit Julie! After collapsing on the couch from a day trying to be all things to everyone…a mother and grandmother.. wife & friend …faithful to my church work ….longing for time to myself… This hit me so clearly. This is what I need to do …what I’m going to do! We won’t make it any other way…& I’m strangely grateful for the exhaustion ….that I’ve have come to the end of myself to see this so clearly now. God is real …Jesus IS with us as we tackle the “work” HE has given us. I KNOW that He is for me….& for you & Michael too as you lean hard on Him each day. I picture Jesus standing behind each of His children with HIS “gait belt” firmly around us to soften our falls….& even share in a smile with us at that moment after we “land”. Thanku always for blessing us with your life & testimonies…so grateful for your transparency & honesty dear friend…
Love & continued prayers always….
L
Your analogy of His gait belt around us is beautiful and so apt, Linda… thank you for your prayers and friendship. xoxo
Lord, I pray that You will bless Julie and Michael by enveloping them with Your love in such a way that will refresh, restore and encourage them. Thank you that they can laugh as well as cry in this difficult situation. Hold onto them tightly and lift them up when they feel down.
In Jesus’ name
Amen.
Sending lots of love to you, Julie.
XXXOOO
Thank you for your prayer, Kay. I ask and agree for the same things… so needed. God bless you and Alan. xoxo
Julie, What touched me most is the picture of Edith. A tiny black speck on a vast sea of white. She doesn’t know how precious she looks but to me she embodies what those of us going through hard times need to remember: trust the Hand that feeds you, Loves you, Scratches your ears, don’t worry about tomorrow and safely stay the small speck in your Master’s vast hand. All is well for Edith and all is well for our souls. Love you and Michael so much.
What you shared is so poignant and touching, Su. Thank you for reorienting my thoughts! Love you too… xoxo