December 09, 2020

Mt 11: 28-30

“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

New Revised Standard Version, copyright 1989, by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. USCCB approved.

O come, O come, Emmanuel

Jesus makes a reassuring promise that speaks to the countless burdens we face in these times – and to this season of Advent. When we respond to his invitation and follow his way, we live the words we sing this season "O come, O come, Emmanuel" and open our hearts to God-with-us. A yoke is always carried by two, and Jesus is right there with us.

I often recall the opening words in Scott Peck’s book The Road Less Traveled. He writes: “Life is difficult. This is a great truth, one of the greatest truths. It is a great truth because once we truly see this truth, we transcend it. Once we truly know that life is difficult – once we truly understand and accept it – then life is no longer so difficult.”

Jesus knows that we each carry difficulties and burdens, and when we face them and walk with him, we will find a more abundant life.   

—Rick Krivanka serves as Executive Director of the Jesuit Retreat Center in Parma, Ohio. 

Prayer

Jesus, may this time of Advent be a daily journey of saying Yes to your invitation. Help me to find renewed strength in following you and carrying the burdens of my life, knowing you will be right there with me in every moment. Help me to be gentle and humble in heart so that the people I encounter will find rest for their souls. Amen

—Rick Krivanka