Heavy Load

“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.” Matthew 11:28-30

A while back, granddaughter Sophie and I were out running errands when we came to a red light. As we sat waiting for the light to change, Sophie noticed a large gravel truck in the next lane. She was curious to know what purpose the small, raised wheels served. I snapped a quick picture before the light turned green, because the thought of a spiritual analogy had suddenly popped into my mind.

Not wanting to get into the science of these tandem/tag axle trucks, I simply explained to Sophie that the smaller wheels were called drop axles and are lowered and used to help distribute the weight more evenly when the truck is carrying a heavier load than usual. After we had talked about it for a few minutes, Sophie clearly understood the reason behind those smaller wheels.

In life, we’ve all carried some pretty heavy loads. I sure have, and maybe more than I want to talk about. While the weight of our loads may vary, try as we may, we can’t avoid them. Because we are from different backgrounds and circumstances, our loads generally aren’t the same. Some carry loads of illness, grief, guilt, sin, broken relationships, or a combination thereof. Still, others carry longtime loads of unforgiveness from hurts experienced during their lifetime. With chronic heaviness and inner pain such as this, we will find ourselves depleted of physical, emotional, and spiritual strength. We struggle to get through each day because a cloud of heaviness seems to follow us everywhere we go.

In our human frailties, we often try carrying these burdens on our own. But you know, it is not the least bit necessary to rob ourselves of needed strength when the answer lies elsewhere. That’s why Jesus came–to carry any and all of our burdens, problems, anxieties, and fears. He came to relieve us of our heavy load of grief, guilt, and despair. He came to help us forgive others who have wronged us. His is the constant strength we need to manage our heavy loads. And friends, He is so willing to do that for us.

What a relief it is when we take our heaviness to the Cross, lay our cares at the feet of Jesus, then get up and walk in victory!  This is the only way to go. Having peace in the midst of our burdens–one that is almost unexplainable, is an amazing thing to experience.

Today, why not turn your eyes upon Jesus, look into His wonderful face and let your burdens and worries, your fears and anxieties, rest on His shoulders. Let Him take your heavy load. Let Him bring the kind of hope to your heart that assures you will always have Someone who is trustworthy and able to carry all of your cares. Let Him give you the ability to walk in victory. He waits for you, right here. Right now.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, You, alone are worthy to be praised. We praise you for this day that You have given us. How sweet it is to know that Yours is the supernatural strength we need to get through this life. You offer it to each of us through Your Son Jesus Christ, and we are so very grateful. Today, we don’t have words enough to tell You how much we depend on Your strength. But You know our hearts. How thankful I am that You have carried so many of my heavy loads. You have given me new strength and rest and life. Help me to live in such a way that I will honor You with every thought that I have, every word that I say, and everything that I do. Bless all who read these thoughts from my heart—thoughts meant to encourage and lift their hearts just a little closer to You. May it be so. I pray this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.