Reflecting on Luke 11:42-54“You load people down with burdens they can hardly carry, and you yourselves will not lift one finger to help them.” (Luke 11:46)
We are all weighed down by the burden of sin and death.
God comes in Jesus to bring us back into His rest.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
The Moses Law was strict, but there was grace and mercy built into it.
God knew that the people could not fulfill it without grace and mercy.
The religious leaders used that Law like a hammer.
They micro-managed everyone’s obedience, and judged those who failed.
They pointed the finger to judge; they didn’t lift a finger to help.
People felt condemned, looked down on, shamed and belittled by them.
This was neither fair nor merciful – what God required (Micah 6:8).
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
This is the Law of Christ, which is the Law of God, the Law of Love.
If our faith weighs others down with judgment, it is not true faith.
Spirit conviction brings hope; condemnation brings despair.
Following Jesus should bring life, hope and help, not a burden!
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, may those who are weary and burdened, struggling or ashamed, lost and confused, find You in me, and experience Your grace, Your peace. May people feel less burdened and not more, when they experience me.