Weary. The word is full of rich word pictures invoking images of those abused at the hands of others, a love that has walked away, work that is never quite good enough, and hope that has lost its way. Do you feel its reality? If so, take yourself to the cross of Jesus Christ. You may be walking there for the very first time. You may be skeptical and hesitant, but look up.

Look up and see his nail scarred hands. These hands feel the pain which stirs in your soul. Look upon his side. It was pierced in your place. Look upon his feet. These feet have walked into the most utter places of darkness. Look upon his eyes. His eyes have seen the horrors of hell. If there was ever someone who could relate to you, it was Jesus on the cross.

He knows what it is like to be abused at the hands of another. To have those he loves walk away. He has felt abandoned, lonely, and scared. But this innocent man’s life was not given in vain. He died to free us from the power and effects of evil. For his Father saw fit to pour his anger for your sins upon his Son. The powers of evil and wickedness were laid on this man. The shameful acts we ourselves have committed and the malice others have perpetrated against us. They were broken at the cross. His resurrection assured this victory.

If only you will look upon the cross and believe. Understand the weariness that torments your soul does not have to be yours to bear. This belief can wash you free. Free from your own burden of sin and from the pain induced by others. Jesus said, “Come to me all who are weary and burdensome and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:2).

Do you feel its reality? His hands will never abuse you, his presence can never be taken away, and his love will never make harsh demands you were never intended to pay. He is hope that can never lose its way. Look upon the cross and believe.