He Lightens Our Load

14 July 2011

Today’s Readings: Ex 3:13-20 / Mt 11:28-30

REFLECTION
Jesus’ interpretation of the law will enable the poor and the outcasts to develop their potential as human beings. The rests that he offers comes from assimilating and living his words, his works, his very person. In place of the yoke imposed on them, Jesus offers the yoke of obedience to his word under which they will find rest. Instead of imposing further burdens on those who accept it, this yoke will make it easier for them to carry the load they have.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus teaches us that the law takes on a new quality. He offers us rest in the teaching of the law which lightens our loads and leads to peace & satisfaction.

In him we find rest of completion or fulfillment, a Sabbath rest like God enjoyed on the seventh day of creation and a foretaste of end time peace & wholeness. Jesus challenges us to deal with people who make life burdensome and think that their life is miserable, to find time to listen to them and lend them a hand.

PRAYER
Loving Father, help us to maintain and keep a cheerful heart. Make us instruments of peace that others may find joy in carrying their heavy loads.

In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.