Moses' life changed dramatically in a matter of minutes. He was quietly tending his flock, when a voice from a burning bush commanded him to draw closer and listen. God commanded Moses to return to Egypt, from which he had fled for his life, and liberate the people of God, his fellow Israelites. Moses was filled with objections and was less than enthusiastic. When he asked for God's name, God simply replied, "I am who am!" In other words, God refused to be labelled or pinned down. To name something is to exercise some control over it, but God is sovereign and free. Perhaps we should pay more attention to obeying God than trying to define God, for to define is to try to take control. God will always break free from all human attempts to do this. No one owns or controls God.

Jesus assured his listeners that his yoke was easy and his burden light, and invited people to come to him to find rest for their souls. Sometimes nothing seems easy or light, and life can be painful and brutal. As our yoke-mate, Jesus, bears part of our burden and provides strength when we falter. He never gives us more than we can bear, and always offers hope, encouragement, and help when we need it most. Finally, he lets us know that we are unconditionally loved and that we matter to God. With all of this, even difficult things seem lighter.