Wow, this weather we’ve been having—it’s Hawai’i’s cooler winter weather! Shorter days, longer evenings and a little windy, huh?
I found an old photo. We just started a huge home remodel project in 2005. Beckie was homeschooling our kids, I was pastoring, working long days, many hours as New Hope was booming back then in the Farrington days.
When my wife and I reflect on those former years, we marvel in God—His grace, provision, protection and mercies! So many people—pastors, leaders—have come and gone. Not just from church, but even from God. I know hearts of people who have seemingly abandoned (for now) their love for Christ and His church. One passage comes to mind: Matthew 11:28-29.
“Then 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.’ ”
Matthew 11:28-29 NLT
We all carry “unseen” burdens: stress, disappointment, guilt, tiredness from trying to hold everything together. Thank you, Jesus—He doesn’t wait for us to get stronger or “get it together” before we come to Him, but He says, “Come to Me.”
Coming to Jesus isn’t about escaping or running away from the burdens, challenges, or even church or our faith. It’s the very opposite.
When life gets heavy, the safest place to be is close to Him—and close to His people who care. We don’t have to hide or disappear. We don’t have to fall away. We can rest right where we are, with Jesus and the ‘ohana God placed around us.
Jesus gives rest not by removing every problem, but by sharing the weight. His yoke fits gently. His heart is gracious and kind. His presence gives us rest at heart and helps lift what burdens us.
Today, let’s walk toward Him to find rest, grace, aloha! Instead of carrying it alone, hand it over.
Instead of pushing through in your own strength, let Him teach you how to rest again.
