Lenten Devotional: March 2, 2026

by Rev. Carey Taylor

"The weight of the world is on my shoulders." I've said this phrase many times in my life, and I wonder if you have too. I think this phrase really embodies what it feels like to be overwhelmed by the things of this world. Maybe it's responsibilities at work, obligations within one's family, or feeling like we have to meet all the expectations people have placed on us. It is so easy to be burdened by the things that we face. I believe that Jesus knows this when he says these words in Matthew 11:28-30  “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Being in the season of Lent, this scripture brings to my mind the image of Jesus carrying the cross through Jerusalem to the hill on which he would be crucified. I think it's fair to say that this burden that was placed on him was not easy or light. In fact, quite the opposite. Yet, out of perfect love for us, Jesus carried that burden so that we have the privilege of laying our own burdens at his feet. When we do, we trade them for a yoke that is easy, and a burden that is light.

We are reminded by these words of our Savior that we are not alone, whatever we face. If you're anything like me, sometimes prayer feels like a last resort when it comes to a situation I'm feeling. I recall the words of the hymn "What a Friend We Have in Jesus":

O what peace we often forfeit,

O what needless pain we bear,

all because we do not carry

everything to God in prayer!

Take time today to pray. Make some room in your schedule to keep company with Jesus. Become aware of God's nearness to you. Experience true rest.

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A Lenten Invitation from Pastor Bob

• Set aside time each Monday for prayer. Step away from distractions and enter into God’s presence, remembering that apart from Him we are lost. Spend time not only in confession, but also in quiet listening for God’s voice.

• Loosen the grip of sin through generosity. Release your attachment to the riches of this world and return your treasures to God. This is not to earn favor, but to free your heart from the hold the world can have on you.

• Practice fasting on Mondays. Set aside the things that normally claim your attention and instead focus fully on God, offering Him your time, your thoughts, and your devotion.