Gospel MT 11:28-30
Jesus said:
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened,
and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,
for I am meek and humble of heart;
and you will find rest for yourselves.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”
Reflection:
“For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”
The truth of Christ’s words are reflected in life.
We each know that a task performed out of obligation can be heavy indeed. The same task, when performed out of love, can be a joy and no burden at all.
Jesus tells us, “Love one another as I have loved you.”
We need to widen our circle of love.
When we love one another, then it is possible to turn the other cheek, give your tunic as well as your cloak, and lend, looking for nothing in return.
The religion of Jesus’ day weighed people down with a thousand petty rules and heavy obligations.
Our Lord’s message is clear and simple. The “yoke” that Jesus urges us to wear is the “cape” of love.
When the phone of a recovering alcoholic rings at three in the morning, it is only through love that he pulls himself up and goes to sit with a fellow alcoholic who is fighting the urge to drink.
My Brother’s Keeper’s “yoke” is our mission to deliver the “love and hope of Jesus Christ.”
Wearing this “yoke” makes light the beds and food being carried to the mother and child who have been sleeping on the floor.
Love is an “easy” fit when we try it on.
“To give and not expect return, that is what lies at the heart of love.” Oscar Wilde