(Matthew 11:28-30)
Prayer: Come, Holy Spirit. Help me to take up Jesus’ easy yoke and light burden.
Imagination: (Picture Jesus inviting all his disciples to come to him.)
Context:
The burdened are those who cannot seem to get out from under. Jesus is one of them. He carries the whole world on his shoulders. Jesus’ yoke is his submission to God’s will. This is the lightest possible burden. Why carry any other?
Gospel Text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud.)
Come to me all you who labor and are burdened and I will give you rest. Take up my yoke and learn of me, for I am meek and humble of heart and you shall find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)
- How many labors and burdens do you carry?
- Jesus invites you. He promises you rest. Come to him.
- Put aside your other burdens. Then, you can take up Jesus’ yoke. This is your true task in life.
- If you know Jesus, you will think and feel like Jesus.
- You will find Him gentle and humble, and will experience peace.
Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)
- O Jesus, I have so many labors and so many burdens!
- Jesus, you say, “Come to me.” I am coming. I am coming quickly.
- Jesus, you are totally intent on helping me.
- Jesus, I will gladly carry your yoke and your burden.
- Your burdens are so much easier than what I now carry.
- In the world, I find restlessness. In your Kingdom I discover peace.
- You always speak the truth. You fulfill all your promises. I can trust your words.
Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own)
- I will examine any worldly burdens which I have foolishly assumed.
- I will choose the tasks that Jesus has for me. For these, I was created.
Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation)
Come to me for my yoke is easy and my burden light.