"Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. ~Jesus, Matthew 11:28-30 CSB
I decided to take a break from social media.
What!?
These days, every other post seems to be a political disappointment and another burden demanding my attention and shoulders.
I’m weary. How about you?
When I woke up this morning and remembered my decision about social media, I wondered what I did before my mornings before my coffee came with Facebook. The answer: I used to think deeply about the writings about Jesus and the early church. I loved it. I always felt lighter and more energized for whatever the day would hold.
When Jesus tells us to come to him when we are weary, I envision a face-to-face, coffee-in-hand, good conversation kind of meeting. As he sits with us, comfort will surely be present, but there’s more. He encourages us to listen to his teaching, take it in, and learn how to navigate life, including the burdensome times. His words of rest, ease, and light are very enticing, to say the least.
So, I think I’ll pull out my old and much more rewarding daily practice of pondering Jesus and his ways. Uncertain days do not need to be met with uncertain actions. Instead, I can lean into Jesus, yoke myself to him, and learn his ways. You can, too. Perhaps a different kind of ‘scroll’ can lead to a better way of living. Instead of the day’s news, let what we discover from our time spent with Jesus dominate our thoughts and words, and in turn, it lifts our burdens. Now, that is a beautiful way to start the day.
"Let the word of Christ dwell richly among you, in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." ~Paul, Colossians 3:16-17 CSB
Note: There are many ways to study the scriptures. I like to write out a few verses in my journal and make notes of what they say and how I could apply them to my life. The handwriting helps cement the verses in my brain.
Also, if you see this on social media, it’s because I didn’t actually leave. I will be showing up from time to time. I love my community there. I’ve just stopped the endless scrolling, and my headspace is thanking me.