Almighty, merciful, and gracious Lord,
In the busyness of this life, in our daily struggle with our own sin, in the constant barrage of darkness, distraction and disillusionment from the voices all around us, we can find ourselves worn out, and weary.
Yet you know how to sustain with a word those who are weary.
When we are lonely, “Behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
When we are afraid, “Peace be with you. Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”
When we are weighed down by guilt, “Your sins are forgiven. Go, and from now on sin no more.”
When we are unsure about God’s love, “Take and eat. This is my body given for you. My blood shed for you.”
When we are weak, “I am the Good Shepherd . . . I lay down my life for the sheep. My power is made perfect in your weakness.”
When we are facing or fearing that enemy called death – “I am the Resurrection and Life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live”
So many ways we can be weary. “Come unto 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” Lord Jesus, you speak just the right word for the weary.
You are the Word made flesh, for us. Be the Christ for us. Draw us to your Word. By your Holy Spirit, guide us by your Word and transform us through your Word. Continue to be the lamp unto our feet, and the light unto our path. May the world know we are Christians, not by our wearied anger but by our love. May they know we are Christians, not by our wearied shouts of condemnation but by our mercy. May they know we are Christians, not by our wearied despair but by our hope in the one who fulfills his promises of restoration right now and in the kingdom to come. May they know we are Christians by our hope in You and You alone.
AMEN.