This Anxious Load…

There comes to mind a stanza of a hymn which has some special meaning for the discouraged and heavyhearted, part of which consists of these two short sentences: “Why should this anxious load Press down your weary mind? Haste to your Heavenly Father’s throne, And sweet refreshment find.”

As we look at people collectively—at passing people, at people in public places—it is likely that we know little of what hangs heavily on their hearts. It is a good and challenging life, an interesting and satisfying life, but still people have their problems.

No doubt, some of our problems, some of our sorrows are not necessary. Some of them seemingly we invite ourselves—sometimes by our foolish decisions—by pride, false standards, stubbornness, sometimes by careless conduct. But aside from all self-invited sorrows, aside from self-induced difficulties, there are accidents and illnesses; there are reverses, failures, and frustrations, losses and loneliness, seemingly beyond our control.

There are those who are the victims of the carelessness or duplicity or evil intent of others. There are innocent and injured bystanders in many situations.

Then added to all these are the more or less commonplace problems of people—problems of home and family—problems that pertain to employment—and disappointments, discouragement, and sometimes despondency.

All of this—or any part of it—could be a composite picture of what is found in the thoughts and behind the faces of passing people. Yet it is a good life, a life to be cherished, enjoyed, clung to, and pursued with the certainty of justice, of mercy, of forgiveness upon repentance—and with the faith and certainty of eternal plan and purpose.

Troubles we cannot always understand. All men have their troubles. But when the cares come heavily, when the disappointments are deep and discouraging, we need never feel alone, for life is a privilege of high purpose; and as we understand our own feelings, as fathers, or our own love of loved ones, so may we know that the Father of us all, who made us in His image, and gave us the high privilege and purpose of life, understands us, and knows our needs; and as we seek Him, He will not leave us alone.

“Why should this anxious load Press down your weary mind? Haste to your Heavenly Father’s throne, And sweet refreshment find.”