Daily Readings Reflection for 7/14/11

Scripture: Lectionary 392. Exodus 3:11-20. Psalm 105: 1.5.8-9. 24-25.
26-27. Matthew 11:28-30

Discipleship is strongly present in both Mark and Matthew. Today's reading
brings that out the meaning of discipleship where we are led to think about
taking up the Cross and following Jesus. Disciples must learn this from
their master, Jesus. We are among those called to discipleship and its
cost. We are encouraged to take up the Cross daily according to Luke thus
all three of the Synoptics are helping us to realize what the price of
discipleship is.

Today it is Jesus himself who informs us as our master that we will be able
to follow him even though it means carrying the Cross as he did. He tells
us, "Come to me, all you who are weary and find life burdensome, and I will
refresh you. Take my yoke (the Cross) upon your shoulders and learn from
me, for I am gentle and humble of heart. Your souls will find rest, for my
yoke is easy and my burden light." This saying of Jesus needs no
commentary. It is extremely clear and simple. They are comforting words
that we just need to assimilate on a daily basis and then live out the
demands of our discipleship. The word disciple is always connected to the
foundation principle of being a learner in the things of God and Jesus for
us as Christian disciples. We have many models of faith who have done
this both in the Old Testament and certainly in the New Testament. Mary
and Joseph are excellent persons who show us how to live as disciples of
Jesus. If we recall this passage in the morning we have already begun our
acceptance of discipleship for the day. Jesus will be there with us to
carry the burdens and trials we face. We then are on the path to being a
learner this day for what will take place. We strive to become more and
more like our master, our teacher, Jesus.

"Jesus promises rest to those who take on themselves the obligations of the
kingdom, using some of the sweetest words ever attributed to him--words
that make intelligible Paul's appreciation for the "meekness and gentleness
of Christ.." (II Cor. 10:1). --- R.E.Brown, in Intro. , p.184.