Theme of the Day: Christians Find Rest in Jesus
We need rest. Without rest, we suffer. Studies show that with too little rest, people experience fatigue and physical imbalances that result in decreased attention, poor decisions, and even speech impairment. People who take no breaks during the workday have lower productivity than those who take periodic breaks.
Christians know they need more than sleep or breaks, more than physical rest. We need spiritual rest. The only place to find that type of rest is Jesus. Jesus provides more than a pause in work or enjoyable recreation. Jesus provides the removal of our sins, the cleansing of our guilty consciences, and a gentle new yoke of discipleship in the freedom of the gospel. In Jesus, Christians find rest right now from burdens and battles, and eventually eternal rest in heaven.
Matthew 11:25-30
Exodus 33:12-23
Romans 7:15-25a
Psalm 62A
917 – God Himself Is Present
706 – Come unto Me, Ye Weary
667 – Lord Jesus Christ, You Have Prepared
703 – I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say
Prayer of the Day: Gracious God, our heavenly Father, your mercy attends us all our days. Be our strength and support amid the wearisome changes of this world, and at life’s end, grant us your promised rest and the full joys of your salvation; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Alleluia.