The Word God Spells

Matthew 11: 28-30
Ex 3:11-20 / Ps 105

Take my yoke upon you for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
(Matthew 11:30)

No burden is too heavy,
No task too hard to serve the Lord,
God makes the job seem easy
With His Kingdom as its reward.

Jesus knew the yoke that the religious leaders and teachers of the Judaic law had been imposing on the Jewish nation. He rebuked them, saying, “Woe to you, scholars of the law! You impose on people burdens hard to carry, but you yourself do not lift one finger to help them” (Luke 11:46). In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus invites the Jews to free themselves from the oppression of old Jewish traditions, and take upon themselves the New Covenant of His love and the Good News of salvation. “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Mt.11:28-30)

Reflection

The burden of leading a renewal community fell on the shoulders of Bro. Rey and Sis. Baby, a young couple who had never before handled such a challenging responsibility, and who were just recovering from a trial by fire, literally. Their merchandising store and house had burned down, and they were just starting again with the insurance money. They had tentatively accepted the position from the head of the chapter that was forming their outreach, after the first head couple begged off from extending their 3-year term. And yet in their apprehension, one could detect their enthusiasm and willingness to serve the Lord in this newfound brotherhood. They had discovered Christ’s love here, and this made the burden of leadership easier to carry.

Most people refuse to take on the yoke of leadership because it is an additional burden to their already loaded schedules. It is a rare breed of individuals who happily take on the responsibilities of servanthood in our community unfazed by the challenge, time, effort and resources the position entails. And the only reason they accept the task is because it is for the Lord, and they do it for love. These are the people who are happiest in our brotherhood.

How can we, ordinary Christians, also avail of this wonderful opportunity of setting ourselves free from the oppressive loads of day to day living, and share in what our Lord Jesus is telling us? It is simply this: by carrying the burdens of others, the Lord will carry our own. If we give more concern to the troubles and difficulties of other people, then our own problems and personal cares will become lighter loads to carry.

They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagle’s wings; they will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint. (Isaiah 40:31) We thank You, Father God, for making us strong for the work ahead. Amen.