an old experienced ox

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”  (Matthew 11:28-30)

Burdens can indeed weigh one down. There is the day to day burdens of work, school, family struggles, and the like. Everyday struggles that cause anxiety, fears, caution, and emotional stress. We have all heard the commercial; "Not another day. . . Can't take this . . . Not another day!"

Yet like an old experienced ox in linked to the younger weaker ox, Jesus promises to partner with us to teach us through life and even bear the heavy burdens. Unlike the oxen however, He will not eventually leave us to work alone.(Hebrews 13:5) Rather He promises to never leave leave us. He goes though with us! (Psalm 23:4)

In fact, Jesus gives us a burden. . . . yet His burden is light, not heavy. It is to join Him at His work . . . Kingdom work! It is a labor that He equips us for and prepares us to do. It is a rewarding work, not work that goes unnoticed and unappreciated. It is not in vain! (1 Corinthians 15:58)

We can let go of guilt, shame, failures, shortcomings and false hopes and dreams. Taking the yoke of Christ brings encouragement, courage, confidence and strength. We may never please people, but know that in Christ we have a lifetime investment of hope! It is better than gold!!! (1 Peter 1:3-6)