One of the most popular, most comforting things Jesus ever said was:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matt. 11.28-30)

Another thing Jesus said that is decidedly less popular (especially in modern Western cultures) was:

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matt. 6.19-21)

And it’s rare for pastors to teach on this basic instruction Jesus gave to all those he sent out to do kingdom work:

“Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. Wear sandals but not an extra shirt.” (Mark 6.8-9)

It occurred to me this morning (in one of those Aha!/Doh! moments) that the comfort of the light burden and not taking any luggage on the journey go together. The yoke of Jesus is easy, the burden is light, because he tells us to leave all our stuff behind.