by Fr. Gregory-David Jones, O.S.B.

      After praising the Father for revealing the mysteries to the “little ones”, Jesus makes an invitation that at first seems to be irresistible: "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest”!  Who would want to refuse such an offer?  However, this is followed by another offer, not for a beverage to cool us down or a cot to relax on, but another burden.  Jesus guarantees that this burden is easy and light.  But as we know the burden of carrying and proclaiming the faith has great obstacles from outside forces such as the world and the Devil, but also from within ourselves, from the flesh.  As great as these obstacles may seem, Jesus’ guarantee that the yoke will be easy and the burden light still stands.  How is this possible? 

     A yoke is a type of wooden harness for two animals (such as oxen) to pull heavy plowing equipment to create trenches across fields.  Jesus offer to us is to let go of the burdens and worries of the world and participate with him in the work of salvation for ourselves and the world.  When we take on His yoke, Jesus attaches himself to us so that we are never alone, regardless of how insurmountable the obstacles we traverse seem.  He is always by our side even when we feel like He is not there.  As long as we do not release ourselves from the yoke, the Lord’s presence is guaranteed; even if we fall, He will not walk away from us.  When we consider what the eternal reward is and what is at stake, when we consider that it is our Lord who really does the “heavy lifting” – this burden is easy and it is light!

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