06/22/2026
The Virginia Declaration of Rights, published in June 1776, declared, “that the people of this colony can no longer groan under the heavy yoke of British tyranny.” In his 1776 pamphlet Common Sense, Thomas Paine wrote, “’tis our duty to throw off the yoke of Britain.” Upon the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, John Adams wrote to Abigail, “It has been a severe Trial, but the Yoke is broken and we are Free.”
On this 4th of July weekend, as our nation celebrates 250 years of independence and the throwing off of the yoke of King George III, it is ironic and challenging to hear the words of King Jesus, “Take my yoke upon you.” However, a closer look at the differences between these two yokes will underscore the grace of Jesus’ invitation.
The Declaration of Independence lists 27 grievances against King George as proof of “the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States,” which was a heavy yoke. At the conclusion of this catalog of complaints, Thomas Jefferson asserts, “In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.”
Compare the character of Jesus who says, “Take my yoke upon you.” Instead of taking from the people, Jesus gives rest. Instead of acting as a tyrant, Jesus is gentle and humble in heart. Instead of “a history of repeated injuries and usurpations” (a charge against King George), Jesus offers rest for the soul. Instead of a yoke of oppression and tyranny, Jesus offers an easy yoke and a light burden....
Thank you to this week's writer, Philip Gladden
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