Rest – Guilt No More

When we think of guilt, it is often associated with doing something immoral or unethical. We all have struggled with that feeling of self-loathing, shame, and despair after some stupid, careless or even reckless action we have done. But that is not the only source of guilt. Guilt also shows up when we don’t achieve what we think we should be accomplishing. Our marriage is not picture perfect, we are not getting the promotions we think we should, our kids don’t talk to us anymore, devouring that second piece of cake, can’t get up in the morning, the exercise program is non existent, and the list goes on; producing guilt in our life. The expectations on us today are extraordinary.

We are to be vegan, lean and fit, politically correct, environmentally conscious, socially active, spiritual, adept at social media, and people are watching us. The burden is heavy, and we are tired. It seems we can never measure up. Guilt lays on us like dandruff on a blue suit. The words of Jesus bring encouragement to us. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29  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. 30  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)

Guilt is a heavy burden. Jesus wants to give you rest. But we need to be hitched to his wagon. When we are hitched to his wagon, even though we are constrained (yoked) and have a burden (purpose) to bear, we feel at rest, because we are not compelled by guilt. I am not pulling the wagon; Jesus is doing the heavy lifting. I am not ultimately responsible for the salvation of my family, my community or the world, Jesus is. I am not accountable to every self-righteous do-gooder out there. I am hitched to Jesus’ wagon, and have but one thing to do; follow Him.

This Sunday, I am going to be talking about the Rest we have in Christ. The burden put on us when we hitch our wagon to the concepts of this world is too much. Guilt saps our energy like a nail in a tire. We are flat and fatigued. But no more. Find out how you can live in rest; having guilt no more. See you this coming Sunday.

On Sunday, October 6^th we welcome special guest Pastor Glen Forsberg who will share the message.

Glen & Lois Forsberg began pastoring in 1966, ordained to ministry in 1967, and served as Lead Pastor of 5 churches over a 49 year period. Glen is a passionate proponent of evangelism/discipleship, the healthy growth of churches, relationships, connecting communities, value for all human life, and fun living.  Mentoring, leadership development, vision-casting, and promotion of the biblical model for the human family are big ticket items for both Glen and Lois. Glen has served as the Padre of the local Legion, is an Elder of the Fellowship of Christian Assemblies, serves as the Fellowship Pastor for the FCA, is an Executive Elder of KCF and has served as director/speaker/teacher at camps, conventions, seminars, evangelistic meetings, and missions.  

Jim Reimer, Pastor

September 26, 2019