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. Matt. 11:28-30
(This has been a week of hearing many stories of hurt, loss and confusion from friends. I wrote this prayer with them and me, in mind and heart. Join us in some burden casting.)
Most gracious Jesus, I’m lacing up my running shoes this morning to come to you as fast as I can. Your gentle, lowly heart is simply irresistible to me. Your easy yoke and light burden beckon me, and I will gladly shoulder up. Your promise of soul rest has never been more timely or needed, for I am restless as I begin this day. Thank you for being so welcoming, understanding and kind.
The burden and confusion I’m feeling are clearly connected to old wounds with lingering pain. Sometimes fresh hurts become like a magnifying glass or a megaphone by which you remind us of unfinished business in our souls. Like a broken bone that wasn’t set properly, broken hearts that weren’t healed the first time are easily triggered and build compound interest on old hurts.
Jesus, I need you. Flood my heart with your presence. Kiss my soul with the assurance that you are enough. Confirm the promise that we can—that I can—do all things through you as you give me strength. Give me ample supplies of the sufficient grace you have pledged to those to humble themselves.
Don’t let the dark one seize this current situation for spewing his toxins. He’s lost us for eternity, but will do anything in his limited power to make life miserable, and rob you of glory. I don’t have a thousand tongues to praise you, but let my one tongue speak with the wisdom of the gospel, rather than wag with the poison of gossip.
As the day unfolds, help me separate the issues at hand. I need wisdom to deal with the pressing concerns right in front of me. I cannot afford to drag the stockpile of old pain into this day. If I do that, I will get defensive and will be on the offensive. As usual, this isn’t about me, but about your glory.
Jesus, help me walk today as a man of faith, hope, and love with the people I greatly care about. Give us the wisdom and power you promise. Bring much glory to yourself. Write stories of repentance and restoration by the grace and truth of the gospel. So very Amen I pray, in your most worthy and gracious name.
