Two Shoulders


When in town recently, I saw a forlorn young lady sitting on a bench. I have seen her before and knew by the looks of her that she was very sad and weighed down with the cares of her world.  It was obvious she had made some poor choices in her short life.

My first, callous thought was, “Well, she’s got to lie in the bed she’s made.” Because I was too busy being weighed down with the cares of my world, I did not have an ounce of compassion for this woman.

But I’ve recently had a small epiphany of which I am so grateful to God for. My heart, and not of my own volition, has suddenly swelled with compassion for this sad person. This is due to the fact that I have also recently realized that I have been carrying my own yoke by myself for the last while.

I’ve been dragging this thing as fast as I can to the finish line, sweating, grunting, and groaning and displaying all sorts of theatrics besides. I have not viewed this yoke as an instrument meant for two to carry, but for me to drag alone while digging great trenches in the ground along the way.

I also had a light bulb moment when I realized that it’s ok for my burden and my yoke to feel light and it’s ok to feel rest while carrying my half.  Jesus has invited me to this understanding when he said, “Shoulder my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  Yes, my yoke is easy and my burden light.” Matt. 11: 29, 30

He has also asked permission to accompany me each day when he said, “If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself and take up his cross every day and follow me.” Luke 9: 23
His words do not imply, “Deny yourself and struggle under this burden everyday of you cotton pickn’ life, Bwahahahaha.”  For me, his words patiently say, “Carry your burden, but let me come with you and take the other side and we will walk and talk together. I will be with you and I will teach you.”

Now my stone cold heart has warmed a little.  I hope to see that sad woman again someday.  I would like to sit with her and simply say, “I’m sorry that you are sad.” I  know I can’t fix her world but I can at least show a bit of compassion.