You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy;
they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest,
as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder.
4 For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered
the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor.
5 Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood
will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. Isaiah 9:3-5

As you read these verses, don’t miss the build up to the next few verses. There’s excitement in the air about what is to come. Notice the prophetic word about shattering the yoke. Recall Jesus’ own words:

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, 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. Matthew 11:28-29

So the yoke that was shattered would be replaced by one that is easy to bear and gentle. But you ask, why do we need a yoke? To begin with, we need guidance because we stray. The guidance that the Lord gives is so much easier than the world would put on us. And make no mistake the burdens the world showers upon us are burdensome and draining.

Take some time this Christmas season to think about the burden the world has put upon you over the last year.

Think of this as a regular oil change for your vehicle. The “oil” in you now is fine but it needs to be renewed and refreshed. Otherwise it’ll bog you down if it’s not tended to regularly.

Renew yourself in the Lord. Become refreshed. Take these next few days to think about those burdens you’ve been carrying around. Leave them at the cross. Dump them once and for all.