Jeff Klein 0:07
Welcome Elmhurst CRC's, daily dose in the word of God. This is Jeff Klein and it's Tuesday, August 2. I'll be reading from Matthew 11, verses 28 through 30.
Jeff Klein 0:16
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.”
Jeff Klein 0:34
This is a really well known passage of scripture. It's Jesus' invitation to a way of life. We often think of following Jesus as a good theology or a good way of thinking - you know the truth - a good way to get to heaven. But, we forget that Jesus modeled a way of life for us. That way of life was unhurried, leaving space for God and time for other people he encountered along the way. I love how the message versions puts it. Are you tired, worn out, burned out on religion? Come to me, get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest! Walk with me, work with me and watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill fitting on you. keep company with me, and you'll learn to live freely and lightly.
Jeff Klein 1:24
I love that invitation (keep company with me). Let me walk alongside you. You walk alongside me and we'll live freely and lightly together. Face it - life has plenty to do and plenty to keep us busy. We don't live freely and lightly, we live at 90 miles an hour. Following Jesus means living the way Jesus lived.
Jeff Klein 1:44
About 10 days ago, my daughter-in-law's Dad died of brain cancer after a 10-year battle. During the memorial service, the most striking and consistent thing said about her Dad (Lee) was that he was present with people when he met them along the way. He was hospitable, because he listened well and was never in too much of a hurry to stop and pay attention. It was inspiring to hear person after person describe how loved they felt by him. You know, it made me really think about myself. I'm really good at talking, but not as much at listening. Dallas Willard said that each of us should learn and figure out how to live our lives like Jesus would live our lives - I think Lee figured this out. He made space for God and time for people. He leaned into each meeting in spite of how busy his schedule was. What would it take for you and I to slow down long enough to do the same?