Settled under the Yoke of Christ

Often we may think of a yoke, the harness an ox or donkey might carry, as a means of control, the farmer imposing his brute will on the beast of burden. And I suppose if the farmer is ill-willed, then this may be an accurate assumption. But a yoke is, or at least can be, a means of leading one to accomplish good. If we know not what good is, then we need to be led into that good work, led into pastures green, and led beside still and quieting waters. Moreover, if our will drives us into temptation, then we need the good yoke of Another's will to lead and guide us into all truth.

Life with Jesus is a life wherein we take up His yoke. Even doing so is a good confession. For in taking up the yoke of His will, we confess the inability of our own. We need the leading of Another. We need the love of Another. We need the good constraints of Another. At times this yoke may feel a heavy burden. Still, persevere, endure, ask for the aid of the Holy Spirit. In time you will come to experience the yoke of Jesus as simple and light. That is, there is little to it in one sense, and yet that is enough. What is the yoke of His will? Love the Lord your God. Love your neighbor as yourself. Herein lies all joy and goodness. Herein is the well of life. 

Let His yoke settle on you, for it is the yoke of life.