Throughout his public ministry, Jesus addresses people who are overworked or carrying heavy loads due to political and religious oppression. He offers them an alternate way: “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” His ministry stands in stark contrast to earthly rulers whose yokes weigh down and oppress. Jesus offers a yoke that in the Greek suggests suitability. The yoke of Jesus is to learn from him. To learn his way. To follow it. This schooling comes from the hand of a “gentle” teacher.
And Jesus makes it clear that a high IQ or lofty position does not give us an inroad to God’s wisdom. Instead, God has “revealed [divine wisdom] to infants.” To infants? Why to infants? They receive what is given, and they come with no preconceived ideas about God. How can we open ourselves to receive what God offers in this way? What do we need to release about our understandings of God’s work in the world—and how God works in the world?
Jesus and God “know” each other in an intimate way. We come to knowledge of each only through divine revelation. Jesus’ calling anoints us with hope and joy. When we fol- low, we nd rest for our souls. His way puts us on the road to recovery. He will set us on the path of true life where active benevolence becomes our desire as we freely serve. Living in the light of freedom and dignity for every person, especially the deprived, will not be a burden. It will in fact point the way to true refreshment.
We commit our way to the Lord, trust him, and know that he will act. We go forth sent by our gracious Father.