The Bench beside the Practice Field
Written for Bible Journey Plan. Our editorial standards.
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Matthew 11:28-30 KJV
This is an original fictional illustration, not a historical report or an added Bible event.
Marcus stayed after practice to try the same difficult kick again. Each miss made him angrier. Coach Rivera called him over to the bench, handed him water, and asked him to slow down. They worked on one part of the movement together.
The coach's patience helped Marcus receive instruction instead of fighting it. Later, Marcus read that Jesus is meek and lowly in heart. He began to understand that gentleness could come with real authority.
Jesus offers something greater than a better afternoon at practice. He gives rest to those who come to Him and teaches them to follow Him. We do not have to make ourselves impressive before approaching the Saviour. We come because we need Him. Marcus still had work to do on the field, but he was learning that needing help was a reason to listen, not a reason to hide.
Bring the truth into your day
Jesus invites people to come to Him and learn of Him. His promise of rest belongs with His gentle character and His yoke, a picture of life under His direction. It is more than advice to take a break. We need the Saviour and His teaching. Receive ordinary rest and help gratefully, while remembering that the deepest burden of sin cannot be removed by relaxation or a better schedule.
Keep the passage in context
Jesus invites burdened people to come to Him and learn from Him. His rest does not remove His lordship; His invitation includes taking His yoke and learning His meekness.
Read further: Matthew 11 in the King James Bible.