There are several passages in scripture that I have heard close to a million times. Because of their popularity, I end up glossing over some potential greatness. Such was the case with Matthew 11:29. Contained within this verse is perhaps one of the greatest invitations from Jesus Himself. The Lord, while speaking to the disciples, told them to “take His yoke.” Shamefully, it was not until a few years ago that I realized He wasn’t talking about eggs. Breakfast wasn’t served in Matthew – that’s John’s gospel (John 21:12).
Being a city kid didn’t help my understanding of this text either. However, my brief time in Tennessee opened up my eyes to a culture I failed to recognize. A yoke is simply used to join two working animals together; thus creating synergy. One might logically think that this would double the efficiency of the work output. To my surprise, I learned that if two animals are yoked together, you normally get about 2.5x the power and sometimes even 3x. A true phenomenon of agriculture.
A single draft horse can pull about 8,000lbs (amazing in and of itself). If you yoke two draft horses together, you can likely pull about 24,000lbs. This serves as an incredible discovery that led to the institution of yoking animals together to maximize efficiency and lead to greater work .
Jesus invites His followers to “take His yoke.” A yoke is not made for one individual worker, but rather it’s made for two. It’d be quite the sight to see a work horse with a yoke and an absent partner. If anything, the yoke would turn into a burdensome obstacle instead of a tool of power. When we take His yoke, we lock ourselves securely next to the Christ; there’s no better place to be in this life than to be connected with Jesus.
This invitation is for the workers, those on the edge of burn-out, those who are being tossed around by the world, and those who seek company. Jesus promises “rest” for the soul when being yoked with Him. When you keep reading past this verse and on into chapter 12, you’ll see some religious leaders start whining and complaining about the disciples picking heads of wheat to eat on Sabbath. It serves as a perfect illustration for those who remain restless. The pharisees in this context were devoting themselves to finding fault in Jesus and His disciples. However, look how easily and efficiently Jesus defends His followers. They were reaping the benefits of being yoked to Christ almost immediately after His teaching.
Yoke yourself with Christ and find rest. Life is far more efficient when we are locked in close proximity of Jesus. He doesn’t expect you to do this alone, but He invites you to work alongside of Him. What a great opportunity presented before us!
Tyler King