November 28

Enduring the Uphill Climb


For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.

Matthew 11:30 (NKJV)


As I was praying this morning, a light came on. God brought this verse to mind as I prayed for my church, my family and dear friends, the President and some very special kids. Deep in prayer and full of concern, Jesus words burst into my mind. These were welcome words. It was as if the Lord were reminding me, “Come on, Craig. Really … this burden you carry and cling to … is light.

We struggle and we plead. We beg God to help and to heal. It all seems so hard sometimes, but it’s not. He has made it easy.

All He asks of us is to trust Him.

Think of it. Salvation is the free gift of God (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5). It is not something we earn or deserve. It is a gift, and all we need to do is accept the gift. We do and Voila! We are born again. Simple. Easy.

Then there’s this thing of sanctification—working out our salvation. We say the process of being “set apart” or sanctified is difficult … but by who’s measure? Usually ours.

Jesus tells us His yoke is easy—a perfect fit and the burden is light. I can shoulder this backpack and you can too. In life, my backpacking has mostly been a joyful thing. The beauty and splendor of a crystal blue sky as I break out on a ridgeline and survey a host of snowy peaks, the smell of the fragrant grove of fir trees, and feeling the chest-pounding might of the thunderous waterfall all a pleasure!

Christ’s work in and through me is a pleasure too.

Yes, I suppose it is a testing, uphill walk, but the burden Christ gives us is for good. It is for healing. Our packs contain what the world hungers for, and we have the joy of delivering it.


Father, help me take joy in the simple tasks You give. Give me strength to do everything You want me to and wisdom for the way. Amen.