Peace and well

29/04/2021

Gospel of saint Matthew 11, 25-30

Simple people, those with a humble heart, are those who know how to understand the signs of God’s closeness. Jesus affirms it, on the one hand, in pain, and on the other, full of joy. How many times does this conviction appear in the Bible? God is not discovered by the wise and powerful, because they are too full of themselves. But the weak, those who have a heart without too many complications.

Jesus also invites us, those of us who may feel «tired and burdened» in life, to draw near to him: «come to me.» He also invites us to accept his yoke, which is bearable and soft. Doctors of the law used to carry heavy loads on the shoulders of believers. Jesus, the true Teacher, no. He assures us that «his burden is light,» and that in him «we will find rest.»

Reflection

Throughout his life the scene repeats itself. The townspeople praise God, because they understand that Jesus can only do what he does if he comes from God. While the lawyers and the Pharisees look for a thousand excuses not to believe.

The question is valid for us: are we humble, simple, aware that we need God’s salvation? Or rather, twisted and full of ourselves, «wise and understanding,» that we don’t need to ask because we know everything, that we don’t need to ask, because we have everything? How many times have ordinary people come to understand with joyful serenity the plans of God and accept them in his life, while we can lose ourselves in theologies and reasoning. The simple prayer is more endearing and surely reaches more to the heart of God than our scholarly speeches by specialists.

But, at the same time, Jesus promises us his help. We carry the cross, yes, but in his company «I will relieve you.» As the Cyrenean helped him carry the cross on the way to Calvary, he helps us to overcome our struggles and difficulties. When we feel «tired and burdened,» which happens to all of us at times, let us remember the encouraging word of the Lord, who knows very well how difficult our path is.

Likewise, we should learn the lesson for our relationships with others. So that we do not resemble the legalistic sages who overwhelm others with their norms and demands, but rather Jesus, who invites us to be faithful, but is sympathetic to the falls and weaknesses of his followers, always ready to help and forgive. He does not want us to be moved by the fear of the slaves, but by the love of the children and the joy of the volunteers. When it is love that moves, every burden is light.

Fr. Antony Majeesh George Kallely, OFM.