Pastor’s sermon is based on the gospel reading from Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30. Summertime is a great time to take it easy and rest. Although in just over five weeks, we may be asking ourselves, “Is summer already over? Has school already begun? Back to work? Back to the daily grind? Gee, it seems like we were just starting to get our rest!” Jesus says if we come unto him when we are weary and carrying heavy burdens, he will give us rest. However, as Dr. Tom Long puts it, “What Jesus offers is a yoke, not a hammock! In Judaism, the yoke was a symbol of obedience to the law and wisdom of God. Likewise, the yoke of Jesus is obedience to the commandments of the kingdom of heaven and a willingness to serve others with humility and mercy.” The burden offered by Jesus is often lighter than the burdens we place on our own backs. Thanks be to God! Amen.
