FROM THE PULPIT FOURTEENTH SUNDAY ORDINARY TIME A REFLECTIONS: YOKE & BURDEN SCRIPTURE: Matthew 11: 25-30; Romans 8: 9, 11-13; Zechariah 9: 9-10. Father Benoit Mukamba, CSSp.
As we celebrate our Independence Day, our thoughts should turn to the Founding Fathers who searched to affirm their human dignity, ability to govern themselves, and live in liberty. These aspirations of the Founding Fathers are still shared by us today and by the immigrants of tomorrow. Such aspirations are heavenly and embedded in human nature.
The Lord Jesus reveals himself to us in the Gospel reading of today as the Son of God, who
alone knows his Father and praises Him for unfolding his truth to the childlike. Jesus declares himself as a humble and meek teacher and invites us to his school. His open arms are ready to welcome any and everyone who comes to him with one’s difficulties and problems. The virtues of humility and meekness imply simplicity in thought and lifestyle, openness to God, and true knowledge of the self in relation to others.
Jesus’ invitation to the baptized people means living according to the Spirit of Christ that dwells in them. The yoke of sin is heavier than the one of righteousness that Jesus offers. Living a life of faith, hope and charity assure us happiness now and after. The burden that comes with the following Jesus brings joy. While an immoral life promises only short-lived joys followed by bad reputation,humiliation and eternal suffering.
In simple terms, Jesus wants us to walk with him and not alone. And our journey of life will be easier and happier.
May the Spirit of Christ free us from the yoke and burden of selfishness and lead us to
experience the joy that is in Christ Jesus.