“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-29 (NRSV)
Let us lift our voices as we offer our praise and adoration to God.
Faithful and loving God, we continue to marvel in your willingness to take our burdens from us. You offer us rest from that which weighs on our mind, body, and spirit. In this place, as your Spirit surrounds us, we find the freedom to confess our sin to you.
Forgive us when we add to the weight of those already weary. For the times we refuse humility and gentleness in order to protect our pride, teach us your ways. When we begrudge our brother and sister the lightness of your yoke, may we receive your mercy.
Dear Jesus, teach us to set down the heavy yokes we place upon ourselves. Open our eyes to the freedom you offer us. And open our eyes to the heavy yokes we place upon others. Even as we accept your rest, may we help others to do so as well.
God, in your mercy: Lord, hear our prayer.
Amen.
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If you are interested in more prayers like this, consider checking out my book:
Prayers for the People: Scripturally Based Prayers for Worship
