Assyria had caused Israel to suffer greatly. They ravaged the land and brought much death and destruction. But rather than directing hatred and condemnation at the Assyrians, Isaiah looked upon them as the 'rod of God's anger.' In other words, God had used them to punish Israel, so rather than seeking revenge, Israel should examine itself. Often when negative things happen to us, we might be tempted to play the victim and be angry with those who have hurt us. It can also be an opportunity to look within ourselves, asking if perhaps our own attitudes and behavior has brought this unpleasantness upon us. Who knows? Our 'enemy' might be the rod of God's anger.

Jesus thanked God that the rich, powerful, and wise had not been in the know about God's plans. Very ordinary, simple, people, whose hearts and minds were open, had been privileged to receive God's revelation. The powerful and worldly-wise are often reluctant to accept the message. He then invited all to shoulder his yoke, for it is easy and his burden light. Life doesn't seem easy or light at times! But Jesus shoulders that yoke with us, making up for what we lack and giving us the strength and perseverance that we need. When we yoke ourselves to Jesus, we know that the path is clear before us and that we will reach our goal - God's kingdom.