Let Your Burdens Go!

Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-29

Taking care of my mother during her illness was both a joy and, at times, a burden. The burdens were often of my own making. For example, my two brothers lived within three miles of our house, yet, they rarely offered to “relieve” me for short periods of time, unless it was for a practical matter, such as going to the drug store or for groceries. What I really needed was a day out with a friend, for shopping and lunch. Looking back, I know this could have been arranged if I had only asked.

Another burden was caused by inconsistent time taken for Bible reading, prayer, and reflection. I lived with my husband, parents, large dog and cat in a small house. I needed God’s strength and courage for day-to-day living. Blaming my “schedule” of duties, or lack of quiet space, often caused me to miss the very thing I needed most. To put it bluntly, I needed time with the Lord. I needed to sit at His feet and learn from Him. I needed to experience the Holy Spirit calming my fears, giving me direction, and bringing me to a place of holy worship and adoration of God.

I’ve since learned we can contribute to our own stress and pressure, just as we can decide to take care of ourselves. I lacked times of personal enjoyment and renewal, because I didn’t ask those who would happily have given their time.

I could have asked a friend to stay with my mother for a short period, or I could have clearly stated my needs to my family members. I believe some of them would have relieved me, if only I had asked.

The burden of a haphazard devotional time and the subsequent lack of strength I experienced rests squarely on my shoulders. What could I have done to rectify my situation? The first order of business is to decide to meet alone with God, daily. Once that's settled, the rest naturally follows.

I see a number of options I could have taken, if I had it to do over again. One is to utilize the great outdoors and find a place to tabernacle with God. Another is to rise early to the quiet, early morning stillness before everyone else awakens. In the quiet, I place the cares of the upcoming day in God’s hands and meditate on His goodness and ability, and worship.

What about you? Do you feel overwhelmed, burdened, and weary? What can you do to change your situation? Think with me, develop a plan, and carry it out. Take care of yourself -- the caregiver -- and by so doing, “let your burdens go!” Shalom (peace and well-being)!

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