Dear Ones,
Nourished by our breakfast on the beach with Christ last Sunday, we are about to begin our stewardship season, which will officially kick off next Sunday, April 21st! This year we are exploring the theme of Imagining Together, which invites us to dream into being the kind of community impact we know is possible when God’s people work together in love.
But first, we need to rest. Our scripture this Sunday contains this short but powerful offer from Jesus, “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Read on its own, this invitation seems to offer deep rest, renewal, and a reprieve from the daily toil of life. And yet, we also remember that on multiple occasions, Jesus emphasizes and even demonstrates the high cost of discipleship. Our stewardship materials point out that “when we consider the broader requirements of the Way, which involves leaving family; sacrificing self and one’s own interests; even at the risk of one’s life, would this be considered easy? Rewarding – yes. A life of service – yes. Joyful, with divine kindness and grace – yes. But rarely if at all easy.”
What are we to make of that? How can a yoke, a symbol of burden and toil be something that offers ease?
Join us on Sunday at 11am in our Sanctuary and on YouTube to imagine, learn, sing, and pray (and maybe even nap?) together.
In faith,
Amy
image credit: Holding a Tired Head, painting by Caitlin Connolly
