Dear friends in Christ,

It seems like most of us have experienced someone asking us about being tired and then we’re left trying to recall the last time that we weren’t tired. Weariness seems to be a way of life, and it’s caused by life in this fallen world. It can be the weight of grief, the exhaustion from caregiving, the stress of financial pressures, burnout, or the quiet burden of hidden sin and doubt.

In the midst of all of this, Jesus speaks: “Come to me, all 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” (Matt. 11:28–30, ESV). These words from our Savior are not a call to work harder or to try more. They are an invitation from Jesus to come to Him. At the cross, Jesus took on His shoulders the crushing burden of our sin, our guilt, and God’s righteous wrath. He now offers us forgiveness, peace, and rest that the world cannot give, all because He carried that load to the cross and then rose victorious.

Isaiah speaks of the renewal that we have. “Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary … He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength” (Is. 40:28–29, ESV). The blessings that our Lord gives are never depleted. We are renewed through His Word and Sacraments. He washes us, feeds us, and strengthens our faith.

If you are tired today, come to Jesus. Lay down your heavy burdens at His feet. He is faithful. He will give you rest.

Come unto Me, ye weary,
And I will give you rest.”
O blessed voice of Jesus,
Which comes to hearts oppressed!
It tells of benediction,
Of pardon, grace, and peace,
Of joy that hath no ending,
Of love which cannot cease.
“Come unto Me, Ye Weary” (LSB 684:1)

Prayer: Gracious Lord, You call all who are weary and heavy laden to come to You for rest. Grant us faith to lay down our burdens at the cross and receive the peace and forgiveness of Christ, who gives rest to our souls; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

In Christ,

Rev. Samuel M. Powell
Third Vice President
Missouri District