Take my yoke upon you and learn from me : What we can Learn from the Yoke of Jesus?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season:  2 Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 11:25-30*

*First Reading :1 Jn 1:5 — 2:2*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 8-9, 13-14, 17-18*

*Take my yoke upon you and learn from me : What we can Learn from the Yoke of Jesus?*

*1) We Learn Obedience and Trust*

Jesus Himself lived a life of obedience to the Father, even when it led to suffering (Philippians 2:8).

His yoke teaches us to trust God’s will, even when the path is difficult, because the Father’s plan is always good.

*2) We Learn Humility and Gentleness*

Jesus describes Himself as *“gentle and humble in heart.”*

His yoke shapes us to become people who do not dominate others, but who serve, love, and treat others with tenderness.

*3) We Learn to Find Strength in God, Not in Ourselves*

When yoked with Jesus, we are not pulling alone.

We learn to rely not on our limited strength but on His grace and power 

(2 Corinthians 12:9: *“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness”*).

*4) We Learn the True Meaning of Rest*

Jesus offers *"rest for your souls,"* which is deeper than physical rest — it’s inner peace, freedom from guilt, freedom from striving to earn love.

We learn that real rest comes from belonging to Him, not from escaping difficulties.

*5) We Learn to Walk in Step with Him*

A yoke keeps two animals walking side by side, at the same pace.

With Jesus, we learn to move at His pace — not rushing ahead in pride, not lagging behind in fear, but walking daily in step with His Spirit (Galatians 5:25).

*6) We Learn to Share Burdens, Not Bear Them Alone*

In ancient farming, the older ox would carry most of the weight, teaching the younger how to walk and pull.

Jesus carries the heavy load of our sin and struggles; He asks us to walk with Him and learn how to bear life's burdens with His help 

(1 Peter 5:7: *“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you”*).

*7) The Yoke Symbolizes Partnership with Christ*

In ancient times, a younger, weaker ox would often be yoked with an older, stronger ox. 

The stronger one would carry most of the burden and guide the younger one.

Jesus walks with us, not far above us. He bears our burdens alongside us, and teaches us by His strength and grace.

*8) The Yoke Provides Rest, Not Burden*

Most yokes were associated with hard labor, but Jesus’ yoke brings rest for the soul. 

His demands are not oppressive. His call is life-giving, because He bears the heavier part of the load.

Following Jesus refreshes the soul rather than exhausting it, unlike the heavy yoke of legalism, sin, or worldly pressure.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*