Matthew 11-13

In Matthew 11-13 Jesus is teaching and preaching everywhere He goes, and He is drawing crowds and attention.  People notice when Jesus is near.  Awesome and amazing things are happening before our eyes; and yet there are still many who do not believe.  Some even oppose Him and stir up trouble.  I am shocked to hear Jesus called a "glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners (Matthew 11:19)."  The ironic thing is, these crazy accusations are at the heart of what make Jesus so great.  He relates to us, reaches out to us, and loves us, as imperfect as we are, even though He, himself, is perfect and Holy.

I love that as things start to get messy and difficult for Jesus, and He knows more is coming, He takes the time to offer praise to God, His Father.  That's not always easy to do, you know,  Praise God in the middle of a mess?!  Here's what Jesus says,

²⁵ “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. ²⁶ Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do."

Matthew 11:25-26

It makes me think about all the times in my life when the faith of my children strengthens my own faith and shows me the way.  Can you think of a time when that was the case for you?  And despite the troubles Jesus faces, He doesn't give up in sharing God's light with others.  If Jesus is frustrated and tired at this point, it certainly doesn't stop Him.  He gives us an invitation we'd be silly to turn down.

²⁸ “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ 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. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Matthew 11:28-29

Gentle and humble in heart?  Rest for my soul?  Yes, please.  

A prayer for today-

Dear Lord and Savior,

Thank you for the gentleness and rest I have in Jesus.  I thank you for all of Your little children who lead me and inspire me as they let Your light shine through them.  I pray for them today.  I also pray for all of those on my mind who are weary and burdened right now.  Give them rest, please Father.  Be with me today and fill me with Your joy.  Guide me in sharing it with others.

In the name of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit I pray,

Amen

Grace and peace,