Do and Do

I can remember morning school assembly: the school were to stand up at the entrance of the staff and the headmistress to the platform, sing a hymn, listen to (usually) a Bible reading, then a brief prayer, follow by saying the Lord’s Prayer, all mumble “Amen”, be seated for any announcements, stand for the exit of the staff, walk out in single-file, and then the school day begins.

To be fair, sometimes those assemblies could be good. But I, and most of my peers, were doing what God complains about Israel: “it’s all by rote: Do this, do that! One rule on another – and you don’t even want to obey me!”

This is a real heart cry from God. He says, “I’ve been calling to you and telling you I am a place of rest for the weary. I offer a place of repose. But you won’t have it. That’s why it’s gone pear-shaped for you” (Isaiah 28:11-13).

Jesus offers exactly the same invitation, years later. He says, ‘Come to me all you who are heavy laden and I’ll give you rest’ (Matthew 11:28-30). It’s not all rote and rules. It’s about trusting Him and it’s a way of life walking together. It feels like a deep kind of peacefulness, because we know His presence becoming real to us. And, as we trust Him, He teaches us to walk His way and in His freedom.

Prayer: Thank You, God, that, through Jesus, You’ve made a way for us to get to know You and to love You. Thank You that we can enjoy going Your way. Amen.