Light Load
Jesus said, “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”
MATTHEW 11:28 (NRSV)
My life seemed fine as I grew from a child into an adult. When I went to school to get my bachelor’s degree, everything went well. Even though I wasn’t the smartest in class, I finished my education. After that, I began working at a company. I have been fortunate to earn enough income to fulfill my needs.
Then one day a doctor said that I had cancer. My world turned upside down. I cried. I never expected to receive this news. Because of the cancer I now tire quickly and will have to take medicine for the rest of my life.
Every day I go to chapel. After my diagnosis, I began praying and asking, “Lord, why do I have to go through this? Can I afford it?” One day, I felt as if God were taking my hand and whispering, “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” I opened my Bible and looked for the verse. I read it over and over again until I finally felt calm. With this verse to accompany me, I slowly started to enjoy my days. I know that God is always with me. I don’t know how long I will live, but my burden feels light.
TODAY'S PRAYER
O God, help us to remember that you are always present for us. Thank you for sharing our burdens so that they become light. Amen.
The Upper Room
By Waspati Ken Wardani (Jakarta, Indonesia)