Dear friends in Christ, today is the 14^th Sunday in ordinary time year A. The readings of this liturgy remind us of God’s invitation to come to him, to trust and abide in him, that he may rest give us rest, strength and comfort. This invitation goes to all of us who long for the presence of God, which brings joy and happiness.
Jesus our Lord gives thanks to God for the wonder of His works. He praises God for the revelations made to the meek and humble, instead of those who considered themselves wise and intelligent. There is always need to give thanks to God, regardless the circumstances we may find ourselves. Besides, Jesus is not condemning those who were intellectually gifted. And, he is not praising or encouraging the ignorance either.
The learned and clever, Jesus was referring to were those doomed by intellectual pride, who refuses to believe and accept God’s revelation in the person of Jesus Christ. Pride is one of the most dangerous capital sins; it is very pervasive, it ruins the life of grace, and destroys our relationship with God. As a result of pride, the Pharisees failed to acknowledge Jesus as Christ, the Son of God.
On the other hand, the infants Jesus refers to are not mere toddlers, but the humble and God-fearing people. They are the ones who warmly received, understood, appreciated and gladly responded to Christ invitation. They are the ones the Spirit of God lifted, strengthen their weaknesses and make them strong in holiness.
Again, Jesus says: “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). This invitation can only be accepted by humble persons who understands that apart from Jesus they can do nothing. Indeed, these heavy burdens are not physical loads with heavy weights. They are burdens of human sufferings: anxieties, frustrations, fears of the unknown circumstances, depressions, name them. These are situations that can deprive us moments of peace and happiness. Today, Jesus is saying to us, bring them to me, and I will transform all into a sweet experience of peace, joy and rest.
Furthermore, Jesus went on to show us the way to approach him. He said: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (verse 29). The one who invites us says he is gentle and humble in heart. His name is Jesus. It reminds us again the first reading, which describes him as king…triumphant and victorious…humble and riding on a donkey. Jesus, our Saviour is asking us to cast away our burdens and take on his yoke, and he will take care of us. He is asking us to unit ourselves with him, because, unlike the burdens we bear, his yoke is easy and his burden light.
Finally, we have heard the words of Jesus inviting us to him. He is inviting us to receive from Him what we are in need of: rest, comfort, consolation, new strength in facing life’s challenges. Are we ready to respond and take Jesus at his words?