Reflection:  Amidst the threats posed by pandemics and international aggression, and at a time when moral certainties have been dissolved by the acids of modern thinking, we ache for peace. That’s why “retro” is in. We look back wistfully to a time when things were more certain and less worrisome. It seems that when people see no hope in the future, they look for comfort from the past.

In the midst of the weariness and burdens of today, Jesus issues the invitation to come away with him, and to lay our burdens at his feet. It is an invitation to be refreshed… and it is beautiful.

Jesus’ invitation has overtones of God speaking to his people through the Old Testament prophet Hosea, when he says: ‘Therefore I am now going to allure her; I [God] will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her’ (Hosea 2:14).

So come away to a quiet place with Jesus, and allow his peace to sink deep into your soul.

Prayer:  Dear Lord Jesus, I am weary to the bone, and the clouds of uncertainty and danger are gathering overhead. Call me to come away with you to a place where I can find rest for my soul.