GOSPEL OF THE DAY

From the Gospel according to Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus said:

“Come to me, all you who labour and are burdened,

and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,

for I am meek and humble of heart;

and you will find rest for yourselves.

For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”

The word of the Lord

 

The burden is light.

Through humility we recognise the true relationship between God and humanity, seeing the place we occupy before Him. The life of Christ, from His birth to His death, was a perfect act of humility, being wholly submitted to the will of the Father, and reaching its highest point on the cross. Because of our sin, when difficulties arise we tend to forget God, trying to resolve everything in our own strength. This only leaves us weary and overwhelmed, where self‑love takes charge of our actions and draws us away from God’s will. But Christ asks us to come to Him and learn from Him, for He is gentle and humble of heart. He teaches us to be gentle so that we may turn to God, and humble so that we may fulfil His will. Every difficulty, every trial, every cross is weighed on the scales of God’s Love. Do not be afraid — the Lord is always at your side, waiting for us to come to Him so that He may accompany us.

In marriage, Christ reveals Himself through our spouse, always ready to accompany us, to welcome us, and to share everything. The grace of the sacrament makes husbands and wives gentle in giving themselves to one another, and humble in fulfilling God’s will together. In a gentle marriage, the face of Christ is made visible, showing His Heart, which is gentle and humble.

Applied to married life

Daniel: Carmen, you seem a bit off… is everything alright?

Carmen: You know me so well. I didn’t want to tell you anything because you’ve already got enough on your plate with looking for work and your mum’s health. I didn’t want to burden you with more worries.

Daniel: My dear Carmen, I’ve shared all my difficulties with you so that I can share my feelings and feel supported by you in everything. I need to share them in order to bear them better.

Carmen: I know, Daniel, but you’ve got enough going on, and what I’m dealing with is only temporary — it will pass.

Daniel: I hope so, but I also need to know that I can be your support when you face difficulties, even if it’s only in a small way. I’m right here beside you, and I want you to come to me so I can help you in everything.

Carmen: You’re right, forgive me. I thought I was doing you a favour by not telling you, but it’s actually the opposite — I’ve added another worry because you noticed something was wrong. I thought I could sort it out on my own, in my own strength, but I can’t. I’ve let myself be led by my pride.

Daniel: There’s nothing to forgive — quite the opposite. I’m always here for whatever you need. Despite my own difficulties, you’re the most important thing to me, and the best way I can show you that is by being completely available to you.

Mother,

Help us not to be afraid, and grant that we may turn to Your Son, who teaches us to be gentle and humble of heart in times of difficulty. Blessed be God.