Dustin Messer on Labor and the Easy Yoke
Exploring Labor and the Easy Yoke
In this episode of Working Theology, Brandon Giella and Parker Smith talk with Dustin Messer about the concept of rest in the biblical imagination. They discuss the deeper meaning of rest and how it goes beyond just physical relaxation. Instead, they explore how rest is bound up in the idea of salvation and how we can find rest through the yoke of Christ.
The Significance of the Yoke
One of the key concepts discussed in this episode is the idea of the yoke. The yoke is a metaphor for the way in which we work in the world and how we are bound to Christ in our labor. Jesus invites us to take his yoke upon ourselves, which means that we become subservient to him and work in partnership with him. Through this partnership, we find rest and meaning in our work.
The Importance of Vocation
Another topic explored in this episode is the idea of vocation. The hosts and guest discuss how vocation is not just about having a job, but rather about having a calling from God. This means that our work takes on a deeper significance because we are working in partnership with Christ to bring about his kingdom on earth.
Applying These Ideas in Daily Life
The final section of the episode focuses on how we can apply these ideas to our daily lives. The hosts and guest explore how we can find rest and meaning in our work, even when it may seem fruitless at times. They also discuss how we can use our work as a means of serving others and bringing about God's kingdom.
Overall, this episode of Working Theology offers a powerful exploration of the concept of rest and how it is bound up in our labor and partnership with Christ. It provides a fresh perspective on the idea of vocation and how we can find deeper meaning in our work.
Episode Links
Bible Project Intro to the Hebrew Bible
An evening with Carmen Imes of BibleProject (All Saints Dallas)
Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters by Carmen Imes
A prayer for bearing the easy yoke
Now, as you depart, Take His Yoke upon you and learn from Him for He is gentle and humble of heart that you might find in Him, rest for your souls. For he has said, I give My sheep eternal life and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of My hand. (Benedictions - A Pocket Resource, pg 35)
