Word to the Wise
Wednesday, December 13, 2017 - 2nd Week of Advent - Wed
[Isa 40:25-31 and Matt 11:28-30]They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles' wings; they will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint. [Isaiah] "Come to me, all you who 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." [Matthew]
DECEMBER 13, ST. LUCY
The words from the Gospel According to Matthew are very comforting, as are those from Isaiah. At first, those from Matthew may seem to offer a contradiction because Jesus warns us elsewhere that we must take up the burden of the cross, which is no "easy yoke." However, scripture scholars come to our rescue by pointing out that the "yoke" here is the Mosaic Law, which was called by the term "yoke" by people in Jesus' day. At the same time, we might do a "fast backward" look at Isaiah along with Matthew and consider our season of Advent in a different light.
There is no question in my pastoral experience that many people find the season of Advent and Christmas a "yoke." In fact, it comes as an additional burden to other troubles and challenges. I hear the words, "We go through this for the children! I'll just be glad when it's over! I don't know how we're going to pay for it." In the midst of this, Advent has to struggle for recognition and the birth of Jesus has to shout. This is why that manger scene is so important. It is a point of reference to what the carol, Silent Night, says, "All is calm, all is bright..." For at least a few moments, the yoke can be lifted, the weariness relieved. The Child in the manger is our hope. AMEN