Rest
We live in a chronically overworked culture. And the truth is we’re proud of our overwork. We see it as an achievement, an accomplishment, a badge of honor. But what does Jesus offer us in this text? Not more work, but rest. And he’s right in line with the rest of scripture. Sabbath rest is a creational and Biblical imperative. The simple fact is that God both created and commanded us to rest. And here, in this text, Jesus offers us that rest himself.
If you’re looking to go deeper into this sermon series or where we’re heading with the spiritual disciplines, check out John Mark Comer’s book The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry. Mudhouse Sabbath by Lauren Winner also has a really good chapter on Sabbath, and Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund is a beautiful reflection on this specific passage.