Many who have worked a short staffed job know that at a certain point things start falling through the cracks and certain things need to be left to the side in order to accomplish the most important tasks. God acknowledges this is the case in our Christian lives, saying “the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few.” We have limited time and resources. We cannot share the message as completely as we would like or hope. In our jobs, we can feel like we will never have the full resources we need to be successful. We can fall into despair that we will never be able to accomplish what needs to be done. Yet, Jesus tells us to ask God the Father for what we need.

If you feel like you are spent and are worried that the burdens will never be lifted, ask God to send further help or at least to give you the strength to carry the burden with grace. For God will give you what you need, even if it’s not always what you expect.

—Alex Hale, SJ, is a Jesuit regent teaching Social Studies and Religion at St. Xavier High School in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

—Matthew 11: 28-30