"Come to me, all you who labour and are burdened and I will give you rest. ...for my yoke is easy and my burden light."

How consoling these words are for those who are facing crisis in life now. Meditating on them will help change the disposition (feelings and attitudes) of those who are over-burdened with their life realities.

To the marginalized, outcast, sinners who found the law of the scribes and Pharisees oppressive? Jesus offered them rest which is the gift of the Kingdom - the Good News.

Likewise, for the word "yoke" used by the Rabbis as a symbol of Mosaic law, Jesus used it to his own law - his gentleness, mercy and compassion towards others and the obedience to God's will.

Today Jesus is inviting those who are deprived, marginalized in society to follow Him because His law is that of mercy, compassion and freedom that promotes justice, peace and hope. Virtues of forgiveness, genuine sharing, faithfulness are what we reveal as we reach out in service to others especially those who are marginalized and rejected in society. Then we will experience His peace and love.

In the first reading from Isaiah 40:28-31, we are reassured of God's constant care and concern for His faithful for he gives strength to the wearied and powerless.