Daily Gospel Reflection for December 7, 2016 - St. Ambrose

Today's Gospel: Matthew 11, 28-30

There are two "givens" in these verses. The first, the fact that in the world we live in everyone is either weary, has a burden or sometimes both. Just take a look around, in our world, in our communities, in our homes and even in our hearts. We are weary and burdened.

The second, which should come as a relief to we all, is Jesus’ promises, “I will give you rest”, “I am gentle and humble in heart”, “In Me you will find rest for your souls”, “my yoke is easy and my burden light”.

In the light of these two givens is an invitation. An invitation from Christ that connects them “COME to Me”. The word come means: move or travel towards a place or thought, near or familiar to the speaker. The choice to come however, is ours. There needs to be a decision, intentionality in our action of coming to Christ.

What does coming to Christ look like? Spending time studying the bible. Praying. Enjoying fellowship with other believers. Or like Saint Ambrose, who, in order to calm frightened people surrounded by attacking soldiers, taught them to sing hymns he had composed.

And as you come, stand firm in the faith that Christ extends the invitation to all, fully intending to welcome, receive, bless anyone; no matter the state you are in, no matter what you have done, no matter who you are, just come!

Ponder:

Christ’s invitation is ever resounding, no matter our circumstance. What is holding you back from fully responding to His invitation?

Pray:

Sweet Jesus, help me to drown out all the noise around me so I can hear your voice calling me to come to You, and by the power of the Holy Spirit, respond to your invitation.

Copyright 2016 Tosan Chigbo

Tosan is a woman praying for a hunger and thirst for righteousness and working towards an intimate relationship with God.