Today’s lesson comes from a section in Matthew where John the Baptist and Jesus are talking about what Jesus’ ministry is going to be. John the Baptist had a different picture of what Jesus’ ministry would bring to the world. People are comparing what John had said and what Jesus was doing and wondering about their ministry. We hear Jesus’ response in our passage today. Jesus recognizes John’s ministry and at the same time, he tells people that his ministry is different. John’s ministry was filled with austerity (no food and drink) as it is a period of waiting and repentance, and Jesus’ ministry is filled with celebration (eating and drinking) as it is the time of fulfillment.  The final verses lead us to see that Jesus’ ministry is also full of compassion and mercy.

One of Jesus’ famous sayings is at the end of this Gospel, “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” What does this mean for you?

Prayer for today: O God, you have taught us to keep all your commandments by loving you, our neighbor and your creation: Grant us the grace of your Holy Spirit, that we may be devoted to you with our whole heart, united to one another with pure affection, and to strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth ; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.