MEMORIAL OF SAINT KATERI TEKAKWITHA, VIRGIN, JULY 14, 2022

MASS READINGS

A Gospel according to MT 11:28-30

Jesus said:

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened,

and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,

for I am meek and humble of heart;

and you will find rest for yourselves.

For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”

REFLECTION

"For my yoke is easy, and my burden light."

I never really understood this passage, since, to tell you the truth, life is not that easy if you are a Christian. For sure it is not a cakewalk.

A few weeks ago, our spiritual director, Father Michael, was talking to several of my family members. He explained how we have to surrender all our problems, worries, infirmities, etc. to Our Lord.

He gave us the mental image of an oxen yoke. If we were an ox, and tried to pull the plow (our problems) on our own, it will be mighty difficult.

Now imagine an oxen yoke for two bulls. One larger, and smaller. Jesus is the large one, we are the small one.

If we allow ourselves to take His yoke, He will be the one taking the brunt of our problems. He will help us carry them. They won't go away, but He will make them easier to endure.

How is this possible? In my own experience, when I surrender my problems to the Lord, certainly I feel at peace.

Other fruits of the Holy Spirit are there as well. Do we know them all? Here they are *:

Charity Joy Peace Patience Kindness Goodness Generosity Gentleness Faithfulness Modesty Self-Control Chastity

For what other graces, what other fruits should we pray so we can endure life's trials? Do I trust God that what sufferings He sends my way are good for me?

We accept good things from God; should we not accept evil?” (Job 2:10)

God bless y'all!

* CCC 1832