Self-imposed Yokes

Tuesday, October 7, 2014


The yokes I put on myself are heavier than the one Jesus offers to me. Let's start with the good news: 
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn fro 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 

Sometimes I have the craziest ideas such as:
• My house is supposed to be cover ready for Martha Stewart Living;
• I need to execute my meal plan with perfection;
• I can't miss a day of working out;
• I'm not supposed to have unfinished house chores;
• I'm supposed to be camera ready at all times just in case Oprah decides to pop in for a Super Soul Sunday visit in the middle of the week.

While all these things are wonderful and they kinda make sense, I am also reminded that there is a time and season for everything under the heaven. Because seasons change, I need to get used to the idea that the only perfection I will ever have in my life is called Jesus.

So what if people stare with judgement? I really don't have anything to prove except that I have Christ's love to freely give.
What if the chores don't get completed? They can be done tomorrow when I have more energy.
What if the house is not perfect? That's when I get to find out who loves me for me or who needs my surroundings to fit their taste.

You get the point. This week, before we start getting depressed about our never ending lists of earthly accomplishments, let's learn from Jesus. Here's what happens when we truly learn:
• we actually pay attention to the lesson;
• we stop doing things our own way;
• we take notes so we'll remember;
• we practice what we learn.

QUESTION: Which self-imposed yokes can you surrender to Jesus?