From Religion to Rest
Thank God that Christianity is more than doing good works and having to follow a routine of religious duties; rather, it is about having a personal relationship with Jesus. How releasing and freeing to be able to follow Christ instead of a list of rules.
Not only can we get tired and worn out from the pressure to always do the right thing, but we can also be loaded down with a weight of guilt for all the wrong things we have done – or the things we didn’t get done.
The following words of Jesus from Matthew chapter 11bring us good news and hope. As you read it you will see that it is an invitation, not a “to do” list.
Matt 11:28-30 (The Message)
Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.
I love this section of scripture, and this Message translation is awesome… “Learn the unforced rhythms of grace”, what a releasing and liberating truth. This means we can flow with Jesus and follow His lead. It is up to Him, not us. He does the heavy lifting and we simply follow His lead – what good news!
Jay Becker
