Rest for Your Soul
The message continues the series titled “Dust of the Rabbi,” which explores becoming more like Jesus through faith and discipleship. Pastor Joel revisits Matthew 11, where Jesus responds to doubts from John the Baptist’s disciples about his whether he truly is the messiah. Jesus points to his miracles as evidence of his divine mission, yet condemns those who witness them but refuse to believe. Pastor Joel reflects on how human expectations can hinder faith, stressing the importance of surrendering to God’s will rather than imposing our own expectations on Him.
Jesus uses the metaphor of taking on his yoke (burden) as a symbol of submission and learning. This invitation is contrasted with the prideful rejection Jesus faced from religious leaders and others who expected a different kind of Messiah. Drawing from Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28-30, we learn about the promise of spiritual rest for those who come to Jesus with humility and trust.