There is something comforting about holding the hand of someone you trust. A child instinctively reaches for a parent’s hand when crossing a busy street. An elderly spouse reaches for the hand of a lifelong companion during difficult moments. A friend offers a hand to help another get back on their feet. That simple gesture reminds us that we do not have to face life alone.
Life has a way of becoming heavy. Responsibilities pile up, disappointments linger, illnesses arise, relationships become strained, and worries about tomorrow steal today’s peace. Many people smile on the outside while carrying burdens that no one else can see. Yet today’s Gospel contains one of the most beautiful invitations ever spoken:
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Notice that Jesus does not say, “Come to me once you have everything figured out.” He simply says, “Come.” He knows our weaknesses, our fears, our failures, and even our doubts. He is not waiting to condemn us but to strengthen us. The rest He offers is not merely physical rest but the peace that comes from trusting that He is always in control.
The first reading from Zechariah reminds us that our Savior comes not with force or pride but with humility. The world often teaches us that power is found in being the loudest, the strongest, or the most successful. Jesus teaches the exact opposite. He enters our lives gently and invites us to imitate His meek and humble heart. True strength is found in surrendering ourselves to God.
St. Paul reminds us that we are called to live according to the Holy Spirit. Every day we must decide whether we will carry life’s burdens by ourselves or allow the Spirit of God to guide us. The more we rely on Christ, the lighter our burdens become—not because our problems disappear, but because we are no longer carrying them alone.
Perhaps today Jesus is inviting each of us to let go of something we have been holding too tightly: a worry, a resentment, an unanswered prayer, or a fear about the future. He has never promised a life without crosses, but He has promised to walk beside us through every one of them.
The Lord is still extending His hand. The question is whether we are willing to take it.
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, thank You for inviting me to come to You with every burden I carry. Teach me to trust in Your gentle and humble heart when life feels overwhelming. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may walk in peace, hope, and confidence each day. Help me to surrender my worries to You and remember that I never walk alone. May my life reflect Your love and Your peace to everyone I meet.
Amen.
Board Member
Everyone needs to have a Ray “Redfish” for a friend or at least to meet one like him before you leave the planet. He has never been known to interrupt a single person, say an unkind thing, although he did come close during the last Dallas Cowboy game, or leave any food on his plate. Ray wants to live in a world where Jesus is Lord, life is sacred, and blessings never end.
Board Member
Grateful for an amazing group of friends and a life that has been blessed and enriched by so many, Andrea brings a deep joy and dedication to the mission of CityOfAgape. She is detail-oriented and uses her experience and foresight to proactively address the needs of those around her. When you speak with Andrea, you feel like you’re the only one in the room.
Board Member
Father David comes from the land of Iowa where you can get sunburn and frostbite all in the same week. He has the mind of an architect and the soul of a musician. Father David has given his heart to Jesus and truly lives in the Kingdom. An accomplished guitarist, drummer, phenomenal preacher, he has the voice of a baritone angel. His prayers are powerful and his humor, well… it’s Iowan.
Secretary/Treasurer
Every day, for nine months, an intermittent light rain falls in Seattle, Washington. Those days are brightened by the warm smile and hopeful outlook on life that Angelyn brings to every encounter. Her financial expertise and engaging conversation has ensured great things ahead for CityOfAgape. Her life is filled with a constant welcome that is focused and friendly.
President
Jacqueline’s life epitomizes hard work, creative service and complete dedication, not only to CityOfAgape, but also to her husband, Joshua, and her beautiful children. Her smile, even when things are difficult, is refreshing and comforting. In most currently used English dictionaries, under the word “energy,” you will find Jacqueline’s picture.
Secretary/Treasurer
Janice is not only meticulous in reviewing records and requests for Scriptures, but her eyes well-up with joyful tears when you ask her about all the letters she has received from the thousands of Bible recipients over the years. She loves gardening and listening to the earth; her life is like a long stroll through an intriguing and engaging nature center.
Board Member
Father James’ priestly service has taken him to four different countries, many parish settings, and in contact with more friends that rivals most politicians. One of his favorite quotes is by G.K. Chesterton, “Let your religion be less of a theory and more of a love affair.” If there are sounds of a lively discussion, mixed with hearty laughter and the aroma of a good cigar, Father James can’t be too far way.
Founder and President Emeritus
The minute John walks through the door, your IQ goes up. He embodies the remarkable talent of grasping the bigger picture while juggling multiple points of view, in a world where many are very one-sided. Always happy, even when he is sad, John is ready to challenge and comfort all in the same breath. Where some only see problems, John sees the bright promise of tomorrow. His inspiration and memory will outlast his years on earth. John always says, “there are always miracles where there is great love.”