July 3, 2011: 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jesus gives us the true rest.

Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me: for I am gentle and humble of heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

We have to remember when we read the gospels that Jesus often taught by referring to things which would have been familiar to those listening. People would have experienced carrying a heavy burden, two pails of water on a rod across their shoulders, for example. He assured them that if they listened to and learned from him, they would not be burdened as they were by physical labor.
Jesus is speaking to us in the gospels as well. We are invited to learn from his words in the Scriptures. He promises that his burden is light!

Action:

If we listen to Jesus speaking to us through the Scriptures, we can learn how to make life easier for others.
Who are the people you know that are burdened because their life is difficult? What could you do to help them?
Jesus lightens people’s burdens through his disciples, you and me.