I don’t know about you, but much in life seems weighty these days– the overwhelm of media, an undercurrent of deceit, growing discontent–like a pack rat has taken up residence in our souls. But this is not new. Jesus spoke clearly and kindly about this in Matthew 11:28-30:
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
Freely and lightly? Can that truly be part of a Christian life?
I have a moment of clarity about free living in my memory bank, and I draw on it whenever life seems ridiculously “too much.” It was a grey and gloomy day, weather-wise as well as emotionally. I was in a dark place and driving from one hard meeting to another challenging life event. I wanted to go home and wrap myself under a blanket with a warm drink and a sappy movie. But . . . responsibilities. As I pulled up to a stoplight, I looked across the intersection and the smallest, rundown car I’d ever seen was being driven by a CLOWN. Yep, an actual Bozo with the make-up and wig! Even in my weary gloom, I knew my Jesus put him there just then for my benefit. It was the wink and nudge that I needed to move me through that day. More than that, it’s been a lingering reminder that my Jesus laughs with me because He knows I need it.
Awaken to Lightheartedness, my friends . . . it really is good to laugh!
If you need a little boost toward lightheartedness today, check out John Crist, If Bible Characters Had iPhones:
Equip Her 
😄