God gives us rest
Matthew 11:28
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Biblical Context
This verse occurs at a time in Jesus' life when he has been proclaiming the kingdom of God and confronting the unbelief of the cities of Galilee. After praising the Father for revealing the truth to the simple, Jesus makes this declaration, which is one of the most famous and comforting invitations in the entire Bible. He presents himself as the rest for those who feel overwhelmed by the heavy burdens of life, sin, and the legalistic religion of his time.
Teaching
The invitation "Come to me" is a direct and personal call. Jesus does not direct us to a particular religion, but to Himself as the source of rest. The call is for "all who labor and are heavy laden." This includes those who are exhausted by physical labor, oppressed by life's cares, or burdened by the weight of their sins and guilt.
Promise of rest for the soul
God, through Jesus, promises a rest that goes beyond the physical. It is a spiritual rest that frees us from the weight of sin's guilt and anxiety about the future.
Promise of relief from burdens
Jesus promises to lighten the burdens that are too heavy for us. This doesn't mean the problems will disappear, but rather that we don't have to carry them alone. The promise is to share the weight with Him.
Promesa basada en la gracia
The invitation has no requirements of merit or good works. It is a gift of grace, available to anyone who, recognizing their need, simply turns to Him.