Take My Yoke Upon You

Gospel Reflection for July 14, 2022

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" (Mt. 11:28-30).

In today's Gospel, we read that Christ is inviting us into His heart so we can find a greater peace or "rest." The question is, how do we find rest with all the everyday burdens? Our jobs, family duties, money concerns, and past or present sins might keep us weighted down. For many of us, life can feel very cumbersome. We need help, and if we do not let the Lord help us, our yoke by our own hand becomes too heavy.

"I turned every way, but there was no one to help; I looked for support, but there was none. 

Then I remembered the mercies of the LORD, his acts of kindness through ages past; For he saves those who take refuge in him, and rescues them from every evil," (Sirach 51:7-9).

The word "rest" that Christ speaks of does not mean we will not labor or struggle anymore. We will still have our daily challenges, but when we let Christ into our hearts, a sense of peace, joy, and comfort allows us to embrace each day with a heart full of love. He helps us carry and lightens the heavy load of our lives. He helps us handle the challenges waiting around the corner, and this love is given freely to anyone who seeks Him. 

Christ asks us to learn from Him and imitate His meekness and humility. Today place all your burdens before the Lord and ask him to either lift or help you carry the loads in your life. Put on and accept the yoke of Christ while keeping your gaze on Him throughout your day. For His yoke is easy, and He will strengthen you. 

"Take her yoke upon your neck; that your mind may receive her teaching. For she is close to those who seek her, and the one who is in earnest finds her, "(Sirach 51:25).