Are you tired?

 

I was listening to WBCL this morning. For those NOT in Northeast Indiana, WBCL is one of our local Christian Radio Stations. I don’t watch much television anymore and throughout the day while I am at “the meeting place,” it is on. I was on my way home from Walmart and got one of the short clips they share on a regular basis. I was completely amazed the young lady shared EXACTLY what I was going to post about this morning. I could not believe it. The scripture was the same, the comments were the same and I thought wow I wonder if God is trying to tell me something. Nothing special came of it, but I wondered if I would post my comments. I decided that both WBCL and I share a common goal, we just want to share Jesus with people. There may be some overlap but for the most part I don’t think we share too many people. Besides, it never hurts to rebroadcast a message. My scripture for today is, Matthew 11.

“When Jesus had finished giving these instructions to his twelve disciples, he went out to teach and preach in towns throughout the region. John the Baptist, who was in prison, heard about all the things the Messiah was doing. So he sent his disciples  to ask Jesus, “Are you the Messiah we’ve been expecting, or should we keep looking for someone else?

Jesus told them, “Go back to John and tell him what you have heard and seen — the blind see, the lame walk, those with leprosy are cured, the def hear, the dead are raised to life, and the Good news is being preached to the poor. And he added, God blesses those who do not fall away because of me.’” (Matthew 11:1-6)

I love it that John asked this question and that Matthew thought it was important to share. Why would John the Baptist wonder if Jesus was REALLY the Messiah? From even before his birth he knew Jesus was the chosen one. I am sure his mother and father shared the story of him jumping in the womb when Mary entered the room. I am sure he and Jesus had plenty of interactions as kids. He was there at Jesus’ baptism. He told his disciples to follow Jesus. So what happened? 

My response: If you were stuck in prison with the likelihood of being killed, you would also have doubts. You would wonder what happened. Why am I in here if I am following the Lord’s calling? Why am I being punished when all I was doing is laying the groundwork for the Messiah. I expect he was depressed. I expect he was at least a little distraught and he was seeking reassurance.

Have you ever wondered if you are really doing what God has called you to do? Have you ever wondered, after that very bad day, Why am I being punished if I am serving the Lord? If you haven’t I have. I have had times I wondered if my ministry is really effective or am I just spitting in the wind? Like John, WHEN you have those thoughts, take them to Jesus. When doubts creep in — take it to Jesus. When people criticize you.. take it to Jesus. When you are tired and feel drained to the point you feel like giving up … take it to Jesus. It is no coincidence that a few verses later, within this chapter, Jesus says this:

“The Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

If John was not rebuked for expressing his doubts, you will not be criticized for taking your doubts and questions to Jesus. Just as Jesus responded to John, he will respond to you, reminding you of all the things he has done for you. He will remind you that he has not forgotten you and he will never forsake thee, Our faith is not meant to be a burden. Sure, we are going to face trials. Jesus didn’t go and free John the Baptist. As a matter of fact he was eventually beheaded and never got to go out and minister again. But, Jesus comforted him, loved him and promised never to forsake this icon of the faith. 

If you are tired and many of you are, REST in Jesus. Sure physical rest is important, it is a way of taking care of the temple we have been given. But, even physical rest is enhanced if our souls can rest easy with Jesus. Let’s join with Jesus, he will more than carry his part of the load. He will give you rest. He will give you peace. And He will give you joy even in the midst of trial and tribulation.