Homily for Wednesday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time

Jesus admonished the Pharisees and the scholars of the Law for laying heavy burdens on people instead of trying to help them. Their interpretation of the Jewish Law was warped. Rather than a path to life, the Law became a weighty load on people already burdened with life's challenges. Jesus did not come to make people feel more guilty. Instead, He said, "Come to me, all you who labor 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." (Matthew 11:28-30)

At times, the Gospel can be rather demanding. This is to help us be more loving in our relationships. We are not meant to feel burdened by this task. Our loving Father, who wants us to have life in the fullest measure, challenges us but also gives us the gift of the Holy Spirit to guide us on our way to eternal life.