Keep Company

On Monday we talked with God about ways we’ve felt like the widow in Luke 21, “devoured” by religious leaders and other authority figures – asked to give more than we can truly afford to, emotionally, in time, with our money or other resources.  Now imagine Jesus speaking these words to you and others with similar bruises:

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” – Matt. 11:28-30

What words, images or feelings capture you as you read slowly through this passage?  What practically might it look for someone to join you on your spiritual journey like Jesus offers to here?  How could you yourself walk alongside others to lighten their load?  Talk with Jesus about these things.

(For additional, admittedly eclectic inspiration, check out this visual from the business world, a book called Orbiting the Giant Hairball, illustrating leadership that supports and nourishes rather than forcing or demanding: the plum tree v. the pyramid.)