Matthew 11:28-30

Most of the time I would associate this passage with Jesus being one who can sustain me in my struggles. However, Fr. Brian gave an interesting take on why Jesus made this statement - it was because of the Pharisees who implemented many rules and regulations before the Jews could come to worship God. Jesus came to show otherwise; God was not a distant God but one who came to live amongst and die for His people. Jesus was trying to say that there was no need for high standards, strict requirements, or complex procedures, because God was with them. It was not man who was reaching up to God, but God reaching down to man. Anyone and everyone could come to Jesus, and He will give them rest. It is that simple!

Somehow this spoke a lot to me, it reflects the message that draws people to Christ. This truth must be brought by Christians to all - that Jesus is not a distant God. I believe that many youths are far from the Church because they find it hard to come back after straying away, but this passage is reason enough for them to come back. It is only when we believe and act out this truth will stony hearts be moved.

We have to remember that each of us are called to minister through Jesus to others with these very words, “come to me, all you that are weary and carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest”. Imagine the power and impact of it - for it cuts to the heart of the human condition. After all, who can say that we are not burdened?

I’ll end of with something Pope Benedict XVI said:

“I say to you, dear young people: Do not be afraid of Christ! He takes nothing away, and He gives you everything… Open wide the doors to Christ and you will find true life.”