The strains are already beginning to tell in our community. Conversations in the supermarket as people rush to get what they need and see others stockpiling unusually large quantities of goods have in some instances become unpleasant; and staff that have intervened to restrict the quantities purchased of certain goods have been on the receiving end of unpleasant exchanges from disgruntled would-be purchasers.
Another example comes from our schools this week, where in some cases staff shortages have placed a heavier burden of responsibility on the colleagues that remain and the hectic dash to adjust to providing on-line resources for pupils when the schools close has been extremely difficult for many of those involved due especially to the time pressures upon them.
However, it is not just a few people that may be concerned or struggling with adjusting to the current situation. I suspect most if not all of us are finding it hard to keep up with all the changes we must of necessity make. Therefore, I am confident that if I asked each one of us personally: Do you feel weary already about how long corona virus has impacted our lives? Or are you exhausted at the efforts required to alter the patterns of routine in your workplace or family? The vast majority of us would say ‘yes’.
In this context Jesus has something to say to each person who says: ‘yes that is me”!’ In Matthew 11:28 He said: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.’
The imagery from Jesus’ day was an incredibly familiar one and possibly was even visible from where Jesus was teaching His open-air congregation that day. Two oxen were pulling a heavy plough as they ploughed a field. An experienced older stronger animal taking the heavy end of the load that enabled the young and inexperienced one to complete the task assigned to them. Jesus is promising in this imagery to be the one who takes the heavy end of the load to avoid us being crushed by it.
If today you are feeling emotional or even overwhelmed at what lies before you remember these words of Jesus: Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
Brian Talbot