1st Sunday in Lent

And Jesus prayed this prayer: "O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding the truth from those who think themselves so wise, and for revealing it to little children. Yes, Father, for it pleased you to do it this way!

"Everything has been entrusted to me by my Father. Only the Father knows the Son, and the Father is known only by the Son and by those to whom the Son reveals him. Come to me and I will give you rest - all of you who work so hard beneath a heavy yoke. Wear my yoke - for it fits perfectly - and let me teach you; for I am gentle and humble, and you shall find rest for your souls; for I give you only light burdens." Matthew 11: 25-30 (TLB)

R.J. is from Mwanza, Tanzania. In many overwhelming times of her life, R.J. held on to this scripture. Each season was challenging in its own way, but the major reason she clung to this scripture was her past - a life she had lived, what she had done, what she had said, how she had hurt her loved ones.

Every time, R.J. was in a situation that reminded her of everything she had done in her past, she fell to her knees with tears flowing on her face. She called to Jesus, and every single time he reminded her of his love and that he died for her not because she was perfect but because she needed a savior.

During the season of Lent we remind ourselves of everything Jesus has done for us. We all have different burdens that take away our strength and make us weary. But when that burden brings us to our knees, we can release it at the feet of Jesus and be at rest.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you for your unending love for us. Help us to trust your love so that we can release our burdens and live abundantly with you. We pray in your precious name. Amen.