Two Types of Burden

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We can carry two types of burdens; regardless of our choice, both require effort. Ultimately, work is involved, and after work is performed, the rest follows. One kind of burden leads to sweet rest, while the other results in insomnia.

According to Peloubet (1901), the world imposes one burden on us. His scholastic commentary on Jesus' words recorded by Matthew describes this burden as selfishness, bad habits, worries, anxieties, regrets, depression, and a desire for wealth and pleasure. These burdens weigh heavily on us, leading to weariness and distress.

In contrast, if we give attention to the words of Jesus that great commentators such as Peloubet (1901) offer in his understanding of the gospel of Matthew, there is an alternative burden. Highlighting the invitation from Jesus to all of us who choose to follow Him to take on His burden (The Holy Bible, New International Version, 1999, Matthew 11:28-30), which consists of the responsibility to care for others, the commitment to prayer, the act of loving others, the endurance of long-suffering, the development of character, and the hard work required to become more like Him and His Father. 

Jesus' burden is lighter and more manageable than the world's burdens. The real challenge lies in choosing which burden to carry; ultimately, we will all have some burden to bear.

References:

Peloubet, F. N. (1901). The teachers' commentary on the gospel, according to St. Matthew. Oxford University Press.

The Holy Bible: New International Version. (1999). Cornerstone Bible Publishers. (original work published 1973)