Looking Above Episode 42 - Matthew 11:28-30

This season we're talking about rest. In this episode,  Karen and Brooklyn talk about Jesus' invitation to rest which is found in Matthew 11:28-30.  We've all heard these verses so often, it's easy to overlook or trivialize them.  But today we're going to pick these verses apart, phrase by phrase and see what Jesus is offering, to whom it is being offered, and what we need to do to receive the offer. It would be highly valuable to sit down and talk with a friend or small group about these questions:

1. We are all included in this offer.  Right now, would you say you're more weary from the active work (busyness) of life, or more tired from carrying the mental burden (to-do lists, shoulds, guilt, etc)?
2. Our first action step is to "come" to Jesus.  Have you come to Him?  Is your trust in Him? What does it mean to you to trust Him?
3. Talk about the analogy of a child coming to his mom for comfort when he gets hurt. Do you have this type of relationship with Jesus?
4. "Let me teach you" Are you willing to learn? Are you tired of doing things your way or the world's way?
5. Jesus says he is a humble and gentle teacher.  Reflect on that.  What does that speak to your heart?  Why might you be more willing to listen to the teaching of a humble and gentle teacher than that of a demanding or harsh teacher?
6. Jesus also says the yoke he give us is easy and burden he asks us to carry is light. Consider the "active toiling work" and "exhausting mental burden" that the world give us and contrast them with what Jesus is asking of us. Why do we continually choose the world's yoke and burden over Jesus'? 
7. Do you recognize your desire for rest?  Or are you like that new mama, just powering through, not even aware of how soul-tired you are?
8. What about this whole passage sounds appealing?  What feels daunting?
9. "Take my yoke" We have to put it into action. What is Jesus calling you to? What is your action step?