September 15, 2016 – Matthew 11:28-29

Then 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. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28-29How often we find ourselves weary as we carry the burdens of  sin in our hearts.  This guilt becomes more heavy each day.  We try to hide our ‘badness’ so no one thinks we are bad. Hiding adds to the weight of sin.There is only one person who can take away this heavy burden.  It is Jesus.  What gives Him the right to forgive our sin?  He was sent to the earth by his Father God.  Jesus gave up His life in a blood sacrifice on the cross for everyone who chooses to follow Him.Jesus exchanges our heavy guilt of sin for his teaching and a new way of life.  He gives us forgiveness and unconditional love – not just now – but eternally.  Jesus gives us even more – an overwhelming sense of joy and peace and confidence.  He sends the Holy Spirit to live within us to guide us and teaches us to love, be kind, gentle and good.  The Holy Spirit gives us these gifts as we learn the teachings of Jesus.Jesus saves us, and this too, is a gift — if we choose Jesus and his teachings.  It is easier to not choose Him, and do what we want when we want.  That becomes a very hard life and more difficult as time goes on.  Jesus doesn’t take away the bad times in our lives, but He holds our hand and gives us strength to travel on.  Being His Friend gives us everlasting Hope.For my yoke (teaching) is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Mathew 11:30