As is so often the case with the teachings of Jesus, this one upends conventional wisdom. A yoke is a hard wooden device designed to keep two draft animals, such as oxen, together so they can pull a heavy load. It consists of a crosspiece with two bow-shaped pieces beneath to join two animals head to head. As a carpenter’s son, Jesus probably crafted yokes for purchase by local farmers and was well aware of how they worked.

In this passage, Jesus invites us to be yoked to Him. Contrary to popular notions about yokes being heavy and confining, Jesus tell us that if we walk side by side yoked to Him, we will not tire, and our burden will be light. That is because He will be the stronger one in the yoke, and He will do the hard labor for us. 

Jesus is the one who always pulls for us. He knows the direction we should go and gently guides us. He is a partner, a helpmate; His yoke is comforting. His yoke is like a favorite sweater, not a hard piece of wood, and when we put it on we feel a strong sense of security and know that our faithful Savior is supporting us.

Notice that Jesus’ teaching about yokes is far from a command; it is a kind invitation. Draft animals have no choice about being yoked, but we have a choice. If we choose to enter into a yoked relationship with Jesus He will strengthen our resolve, give rest to our flagging spirits and help us bear the challenges and burdens of this life. Yoked to Him, we will not fall. Think about it; Jesus’ yoke also prevents us from being yoked to what can destroy us: hatred; addiction, envy, greed, resentment, guilt and all the other ills that plague humankind. Accepting Jesus’ yoke is life-saving.

Jesus does not take all our burdens away, but He can help us bear them if we accept His invitation to be yoked to Him. He is meek and lowly, but He is very strong. He always keeps His promises to protect and guide us, and He is always faithful. Jesus always does the heavy lifting.

God bless you!

Peggy