Invitation
Recently our Government told us that things are going to get harder before they get better. I believe it’s true, as we journey through Lockdown 3 once again, we are placed under more restrictions.
The nation’s children and young people are being taught at home, the police are gearing up to enforce ‘stay at home’ and our hospitals and NHS staff are at breaking point.
We all feel it and we are all affected. Hopefully we all trying to do our bit to help as well? But let’s face it life is tough! Somehow, we need to find new daily routines to help us through and glimpses of hope that say you can do this! At least Joe Wicks is back!
I read in the Bible some words of hope, inspiration and life from the great man himself, Jesus...
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
What an invitation! It’s open to anyone and everyone and contains no limitations or restrictions. Jesus will turn no one away. You don’t have to stand back, as Jesus calls you to draw close to Him.
So, what are we being invited to? Jesus says ‘rest’. What do you need ‘rest’ from? It could be something physical, emotional or spiritual. Rest is having time and space to relax and recover. Whatever you need, Jesus offers rest from it.
Jesus uses the image of a yoke. Back then his audience would have known that he referred to a wooden crosspiece that is fastened over the necks of two animals and attached to a plough or cart that they are to pull.
What a powerful image! Jesus is saying, you don’t have to do life on your own! He wants to partner with you and teach you His ways, which are good and far better than our own.
In these difficult ‘Covid’ times there is an invitation to you from Jesus. He promises rest and partnership. Will you accept it?
Please check out our live stream service every Sunday at 10:30am, simply go to www.hopebasingstoke.org/livestream
Stay safe & God bless
Gary Bastin - Hope Community Church leader