CAN I HANDLE YOUR BAGGAGE?
I stepped out of our taxi at the Chennai train station in South India. Thousands of people milled about like ants. A cacophony of noise arose, as confusing as the Wall Street Stock Exchange. It was like nothing I’d ever experienced. Once we were stationary, a horde of porters barraged our party, desperately desiring to handle our baggage. Our host, Babu, negotiated with them, and quicker than you can say “chicken masala,” porters snatched up our bags and toted them off on their heads.
My American “git ‘er done” attitude kicked in, and I informed Babu that I was perfectly capable of handling my own luggage. Babu informed me everyone has a specific role in India, so I needed to allow the porters to do their job.
How often do we do the same thing with Jesus? In Matthew 11:28-30, He offers, “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.”
The Message is even more emphatic, “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.” In other words, “Can I handle your baggage?
The all-powerful Son of God wants to handle your baggage! Perhaps it’s the baggage of religious duty or of uncontrolled anger. Maybe lust, people-pleasing or entitlement. Why limp through life dragging our baggage when He’s asking to take it? Let’s guard ourselves from saying “I don’t need any help.” Let Jesus handle our baggage.
Ponder:
What burdens are you most resistant to allow Jesus to carry?
Where does this resistance come from?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Matthew 11:28-30.
Dear Jesus, I come to You in humility. Forgive me for my pride in wanting to take care of my own needs, rather than rely on You.
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Photo courtesy of Engin Akyurt