Taking up the cross, like taking up the yoke, requires something from us – empty hands. We cannot pick up the cross, or take up the yoke, if we are still holding onto our opinions. Our supposed rights. Our own wisdom. These are all things still in our hands, and ironically, many of the things that are exhausting us from holding onto them. We can’t embrace the Savior if we’re holding onto ourselves.

Do you wake up tired in the morning?

If you do, you’re not alone. Some of it might have to do with our schedules, our stress level, or even our mattresses, but perhaps a larger part of it is that we, as people, are just tired right now. Not just tired even – exhausted.

We are exhausted from the ever-changing information about the pandemic. We are exhausted from the fighting and debates. We are exhausted from the political season. We are an exhausted people, and it’s showing. Whenever you get tired, there are certain effects that are plainly visible. Our patience is short; our anger is quick; our annoyance is heightened. We are exhausted, and we need more than sleep.

This kind of exhaustion is not just about sleep deprivation; it’s an exhaustion of the soul. And for that kind of exhaustion, we need something better than a nap.

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