My hubby and I have a routine every Sunday. We get to the coffee shop early in order to sit for an hour or so, sip coffee, listen to our iPods, and read and study. This morning was no different. What was unusual was the violin case we saw sitting on the sidewalk outside. We walked by and then once inside we discussed our concern. Should we pick it up and bring it inside? Maybe someone forgot it? What a strange place to leave a violin!

Rick went out to get it but then returned empty handed. “Where is it?” I asked. But he said that when he opended the case the violin inside was broken to pieces, no longer worth anything. We wondered what this instrument’s story was… maybe a young student got angry because his parents made him practice. In any case, I began to think about how this instrument would never be able to provide music again. How sad…

Sometimes I feel like this violin. Broken and abandoned, no music left in me. But then I remember that the Lord never leaves us and that he is strong when we are weak. We need only to look to Him for refreshment and guidance. He will repair our broken strings. Matthew 11:28-30 says,

…Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your soulds. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.

I know that Jesus does not promise an easy road but an easier load with His burden than with mine. I also know that he promises to be with me along the way. He is teaching me while providing love and rest. I am so thankful for His faithfulness!