In our fast-paced and demanding world, it can be difficult to find rest. We are constantly bombarded with messages telling us that we need to be more productive, more successful, and more perfect. But what if the key to finding true rest is not to do more, but to do less?
In the passage from Matthew 12, we see Jesus challenging the religious leaders of his day for their rigid and legalistic interpretation of the Sabbath law. They had made the rules greater than the relationship, and they were so focused on following the letter of the law that they missed the spirit of it.
Jesus reminded them that the Sabbath was meant to be a day of rest and refreshment, not a day of burden and guilt. He also reminded them that God desires mercy and not sacrifice. In other words, God is more concerned with our hearts than with our outward compliance with rules.
If we want to find rest in this restless world, we need to follow Jesus' example and prioritize our relationship with God. We need to learn to trust Him more, to forgive ourselves, and to remember that the relationship is greater than the rules.
Here are some additional thoughts on the passage from Matthew 12:
- The religious leaders were so focused on following the letter of the law that they missed the spirit of it. The law was meant to be a guide for living a righteous life, not a set of rules to be followed legalistically.
- Jesus is not saying that the law is wrong. He is simply saying that it should be interpreted and applied in a way that is consistent with God's love and mercy.
- Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath, which means that He has the authority to set aside the Sabbath law when necessary. In this case, He is setting it aside to help people who are in need.
- Jesus is inviting us to come to Him for rest. He knows that we are all weary and burdened, and He wants to give us peace.
Here are a few practical tips for finding rest:
- Set aside time each day for quiet reflection and prayer. This does not have to be a long time, but it is important to have some time each day to disconnect from the world and connect with God.
- Spend time in nature. There is something about being in nature that can help us to relax and de-stress. Go for a walk in the park, sit by a river, or hike in the mountains.
- Find activities that you enjoy and that make you feel good. This could be anything from reading to listening to music to spending time with loved ones.
- Say no to commitments that you do not have time for or that you do not want to do. It is okay to say no to people.
- Forgive yourself when you make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes. Do not beat yourself up over them. Learn from them and move on.
Remember, Jesus invites everyone in need of rest. Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)
If you are feeling weary and burdened today, there is only once source of rest, true rest: Jesus Christ. Find your rest in him today; His arms are wide open.
-Pastor Brian