“O ye, beneath life’s crushing load, whose forms are bending low.
Who toil along the climbing way with painful steps and slow.
Look now for glad and golden hours come swiftly on the wing!
O rest beside the weary road and hear the angels sing.”
Christmas doesn’t look like big gatherings with lots of food and celebrations with family for me this year. Instead it’s quietness and hot chocolate at home, resting weary muscles and aching bones. But this old hymn has meant so much to me over the last 2ish years as I’ve fought mental and physical battles with this fleshly body. The words are balm to my soul. ”Glad and golden hours come swiftly…… rest beside the weary road…. hear the angels sing.”
It’s ok to be weary from trudging with a heavy load, because our Jesus gives rest beside the road. You can stop to rest in our Savior and His love, just to listen to a voice from heaven. Your steps may be painful and/or slow, but our Jesus walks beside you. Your heart may be heavy but Jesus sees and He is the best healer of hearts. Your path may look unknown or rough but He is right beside you.
Maybe Christmas isn’t the same this year for you either, and that’s ok. For some, Christmas is the most joyful time of year. And for others, it’s the heaviest time of all. So if you feel especially burdened today by the weights you carry, look to Jesus. Seek peace and hope in the little moments. Perhaps Christmas feels the same as it always has for you. If so, soak that up too, and be thankful all the same! Take a few minutes to pray for our Heavenly Father to wrap His arms around the ones whose hurt runs deep and hearts feel heavy.
No matter where you find yourself in life today, may we all be reminded of our Savior and the strength and grace he gives. I’m praying that you feel His presence with you throughout the rest of the day. And a blessed Christmas to you!
*part of this post was written in December of 2019, when I ended up sick on the couch on Christmas day. My health was struggling and this felt like one more blow, one more time that I had to miss something special because of circumstances I couldn’t control. I stumbled across my old words this month, and added in some new ones that were on my heart this year and I pray that you find some encouragement in them. We are so grateful for you readers, each and every day, and pray for you often. On days like today, we’re thinking of you who are feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders and praying for you in a special way!
Kaitlyn Burkey
Author Bio: Kaitlyn is a lover of sunsets, especially the ones in her home-state of Nebraska. She enjoys drinking coffee, exploring new places, spending time with new and old friends, and deep conversations with people of all ages. You can often find her behind the desk in her little office, at home baking something, reading a book, or spending time with her family. She is passionate about finding beauty and joy in the everyday moments of life and sharing it with others. Kait always enjoys making friends and connecting with others, so you’re welcome to reach out to her on Instagram at @_katie.burk_ or email her at