Lion + LambShembull

Prayer: Jesus, I know that apart from You I can do nothing. Detached from the vine, I’m an incapable branch. Today, please help me to set aside my fleshly desires and submit to You and abide in You. 

The Lion’s Offer

A nation-wide phenomenon occurs every four years in the United States. In preparation for this event, a few men and women show up regularly on our TVs, phones, newspapers, and billboards. They debate one another on hot topics, inspire people to hold signs on street corners, kiss babies’ foreheads, take photos with grandmothers, and ultimately ask us one gutsy question: will you choose me to lead this nation? 

Today’s passage centers on the same question but comes with an offer that no modern President can provide. Jesus, speaking symbolically to the entire nation of Israel, asks this: Will you weary people trade the heavy burden of your sin and its consequences for my present and eternal rest? Will you trade your burdensome yoke for mine, which is light and easy? Will you submit to me as your nation’s rightful leader? 

This is a pivotal, climactic moment in Jesus’ ministry as the authoritative Lion of Judah. The people of Israel then, and us today, are left with a choice. 

Look in the Word: 

1. What do you learn about the relationship between Jesus and God the Father in verses 25-27?
2. What do you think the difference is between “the wise” and the “little children?” 
3. Who would the laborers and heavy laden have been in this passage? 
4. What does Jesus mean by “rest for your soul” here? 

What’s Next? 

1. The imagery Jesus uses here is of an ox willingly submitting to the farmer, allowing him to place his yoke upon his shoulders. How do you feel about being on the ox side of this image, being asked to submit to Jesus’ leading and guidance and direction for your life? 
2. Pray for the humility to submit to God’s leading instead of your own. 
3. Abide in Christ today, for his yoke is easy and his burden is light. How great a gift to be led by a leader like Him.