Tag: labor
Lowly in heart
Scripture reading for January 15: Matthew 11
“At that time Jesus declared, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was Your gracious will. All things have been given Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him. 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. “ Matthew 11:25-29
In our current culture, we revere those who have degrees from prestigious universities. We hold in high esteem the scientists, engineers, politicians and technology gurus who are famous in our land. It was no different in Jesus’ day and culture. There politicians, emperors, religious leaders, and military strategists took center stage. Children were looked down on as were the women and slaves of the society. But Jesus came with a different view of life that He said was hidden from these prominent and proud members of the culture but was revealed to children and those lowly in heart.
The hidden truth concerned the identity of Jesus Christ. First, He was the Son of God the Father. No one could figure this out on their own, God must reveal it to them. All things in heaven and on earth belonged to Him because of His Father’s will. Those who considered themselves ‘wise’ and ‘learned’ would not find these essential truths. But Jesus called out to those who were humble enough to listen. If they would come to Him, they could learn this powerful truth that would bring them rest and joy. Jesus would give them a ‘lowly’ heart, like His own, and gentleness instead of harshness and violence.
Are you weighed down with a pursuit of worldly knowledge, woke acceptance, or religious duty? Are you seeking acclaim and accolades for your accomplishments? Have you responded to Jesus’ call to come to Him for rest and true understanding?
Prayer: Lord Jesus forgive me for seeking my satisfaction and praise from the ‘wise’ and ‘woke’ in our culture. I come to Jesus afresh today to learn from Him and become like Him in my heart and attitudes. I want to learn gentleness and live a life of rest and peace. Amen.