Matthew 11:28-30 (KJV)
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden,
and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me;
for I am meek and lowly in heart:
and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
For me, this passage always calls to mind oxen working in the fields. I picture them dragging a heavy load, working against the weight that tries to hold them back. I suppose this picture is accurate in some aspects, but there is more to this image.
In Jesus’ day, a Rabbi was known for his “yoke.” This referred to his course of study for his students. The Rabbi’s task was to teach the law and the prophets. Some Rabbis were known to be particularly difficult, having a “heavy yoke.” Jesus says that his yoke is easy, he asks us to take his yoke and to learn from him.
When asked about the law, Jesus said, “Love God and love your neighbor.” He said that if we do those things, all of the law and all prophecies will be covered.
In addition to that, Jesus says to come to him, come to him and he will give rest. In Advent we say we await his coming. I think Jesus awaits our advent as well. Come to Jesus, rest. Peace and love await.
Pray: Dona nobis pacem. Give us peace. Amen
