By Judith Gillis

“But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty.” – 2 Timothy 3:1

Looking out on the landscape of society, even the bravest heart is tempted to despair, or at least to deep cynicism. Seemingly every semblance of stability, safety, and sanity has disappeared from our society and our world. We see institutions long considered inviolable rocked by scandal. Systems thought to be solid and dependable teeter on the brink of collapse. Entire countries bankrupt, leaving their citizens scrambling to find even the basic necessities to sustain life. Wars rage throughout the globe while agencies entrusted with peacekeeping are exposed as impotent and ineffective, and even culpable. Plagues, famines, disastrous weather events; the list goes on and on with no end it sight.

Where do we turn for solutions? Where do we go to find stability? Where can the human heart go for comfort? It would seem our race has reached the end of our ability to recover, to reboot, to maintain order and sustain calm, productive societies. As soon as one crisis is eased, another takes its place. Politician’s promises ring hollow in the face of day-to-day reality.Religion, with its rules and unattainable goals, leaves us disappointed and discouraged at our inability to measure up. Financial stability seems available to only a few while millions struggle to keep their heads above water and the wolf from the door. Where to go, indeed.

In the midst of the pain and uncertainty and stress of modern life, we go to the One whose words speak to our condition. The calm, steady voice of Jesus cuts through the clamor and cries of humanity. His words have stood the test of time, sustained millions who have trusted in them, and will sustain us too, if we will only heed them.

“Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28