Windy Beach

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matt 11:28 NLT

Whoa! Laughing, we ran after our hats! Having just stepped out to the beach from a protected pathway, we were almost blown over by the near gale force wind. With great power and blowing parallel to the shoreline it picked up the sand and any lose piece of clothing! Turning our backs to the wind, Mike and I decided to walk with it making the first half of our stroll easy. Inevitably, though, it was time to turn back. So with hands clutching our hats we turned back to face the raging wind. As we leaned into it, we could see the sand starting to cling to our clothes. Struggling to make forward progress, I wondered, “How can I make this easier?” “Ah, I’ll walk behind Mike. His body will cut a path through the wind.” As my footsteps fell into rhythm behind his and my walk became easier, I remembered the words of Jesus: “Follow me.” He didn’t say, “Go before me and I’ll push you into unexplored territory.” No, it was, “Follow me.” That’s right! Jesus has the power to overcome the wind; to overcome my struggles. He goes before me to show the way. All I have to do is follow His example and let Him lead me. As I love more, serve more and forgive more, step-by-step my life looks like I’m more on Christ’s pathway. Are you struggling with some issues? Does it seem like you’re fighting a strong headwind? Let Jesus lead you. Release ownership of your issues – give them to Him. Consider His words and live: “Come to me, I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me-watch how I do it. . . . I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matthew 11:28-30 The Message). This is my prayer for you!