Daily Gospel Reflection for July 9, 2023

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Matthew 11:25-30

“The Church is a home and family for everyone, especially those who ‘labor and are heavy laden’. ” St. John Paul II, Familiaris Consortio, 85

In today’s Gospel, Jesus describes himself as “gentle and lowly in heart.” Humility is one of the most defining qualities of a Christian. Part of being humble includes the ability to ask for help at times. I have always struggled with this. It has been particularly challenging as I have gotten older and felt I should be more and more self-reliant. This is probably why the Kingdom of God is thought then more accessible to little ones - the infants or babes, who, with their simple faith, are more dependent on God. One must be always drawn to Him, heart and soul.

At nighttime however, when all becomes quiet, it is clear how restless my soul becomes for You, O Lord. The sufferings and heaviness of my own heart can become more apparent once the distractions are cleared away. I am only able to find peace once I step away from my never-ending to-do lists and instead, envelop myself in focused prayer time with You.

Lord, How blessed I am that You have invited me to share in Your yoke! The yoke, a shared way of carrying a burden, is often described using a picture of a pair of oxen, where, if the yoke is well-fitted, the burden is light and easy to carry. Christ calls us, letting us know that if we turn to Him and take on His yoke, we will receive rest and peace.

Ponder:

What might be some areas you can turn over to God, that Jesus Christ can carry for you?

Pray:

May we allow ourselves to take rest in the Lord’s infinite blessings by allowing Him to take over. May we trust in His grace of the easy yoke.

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Lord, How blessed am I that You have invited me to share in Your yoke! #DailyGospel

Copyright 2023 Alexis Dallara-Marsh