Be Still And Know

Matthew 11.28-30 NLT Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you... For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” The yoke of the law was an expression that the rabbis often used. Just as two animals were firmly attached to one another by a wooden yoke, so too complying with all the requirements of the law could be incredibly oppressive. Jesus offered another yoke and his was completely different. It was still a yoke, and therefore very demanding, but his yoke was both easy and light. Those who accepted Jesus’ yoke could find refreshment and renewal. When two oxen work together in a yoke they can be immensely powerful and effective, but it is crucial that the yoke fits comfortably. An ill-fitted yoke could cause agony. In these chapters Jesus has spelt out the massive demands that are placed on his disciples. It’s a life that is full of challenge and difficulty. Disciples of Jesus are bound to encounter