Who Is Jesus? Part 2Намуна

True Rest

Rest. I think there are a lot of misconceptions around this word. Some picture spas and cucumbers. Some define it simply as not working or perhaps watching Netflix, playing games, or being on a break from school. Maybe you think of counting sheep and deep sleep. But no matter what comes to mind, Jesus really throws us a curveball with the image He presents.  

“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.” Matthew 11:28-30 NIV

A yoke? Isn’t that what’s placed on an animal when it’s time for work? Yes, but also when it's time to learn. In Jesus’ day, to train young animals, they were yoked to older, more experienced ones. These older animals led the way and bore the weight of the yoke, while the younger ones followed along, learning their role. 

Further, the word easy in Greek is chrestos, which is also translated “well-fitting.” Because yokes were always carefully adjusted to rest precisely on an animal, so as to not cause any harm or chafing. In other words, they were tailor-made to fit just right. 

Jesus’ imagery shows us something really powerful about rest. First, that rest is not about laziness or indulgence. It’s about learning what it looks like to walk in the purpose God has has invited us into. Because when we are doing something we aren’t designed to do, we will always end up tired and overwhelmed. This is why there’s a yoke involved. Jesus says, learn from Me. He is our Creator in human flesh. He, more than anyone else, understands our purpose. So Jesus came to teach us; to show us what it looks like to dedicate our lives to the mission we were created for. That’s why He invites us to be yoked up with Him. 

Because ultimately, there’s no true rest for our souls in anyone or anything but Jesus.