Homily: Fifteenth Thursday of Ordinary Time

Fifteenth Thursday of Ordinary Time (Mt. 11-28-30)

There is a legend about Jesus which says that he was excellent at making yokes. He was known for this througout Galilee. People would come from far and wide to have him craft yokes for their teams of oxen.

Each yoke of oxen did have to have their own yoke. If a generic yoke was used it would probably cause chaffing which would harm the animals. When the oxen would be sold their yoke would go with them. If one ox would die the yoke would have to be thrown away.

It is said that Jesus had a sign that hung over the door of his carpenter shop which said, “My yokes fit well. When he preached this sermon, he was referring to this sign.

We have often heard the expression that God will never give us more than we can handle. Somehow, I have always felt uncomfortable with this statement. I have seen people who have collapsed under the weight of too many burdens.

The thought that Jesus will craft a special yoke for each person that will be tailored to the specific difficulties they have to cope with in life seems more nuanced.

This statement seems to say that Jesus will always be available to help us when we need tools that will help us carry heavy burdens. Jesus will not turn a blind eye towards us as we struggle along in life.

Perhaps the key is that we need to seek Jesus out like those first century farmers who came to him asking him to craft a special yoke just for them. If we don’t ask for help from Jesus it will be a lot harder for the Lord to intervene on our behalf.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Does the thought of Jesus crafting a yoke for me, and my burdens bring me comfort? Have I ever been overwhelmed with life?

2.   What burdens am I carrying right now? Have I taken my problems to Jesus in prayer?

 Dear Parishioners,

             This week is the Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis. We have several parishioners who have traveled to the Congress. I am sure that they are praying for us in a special way. Let’s remember them as they represent our parish.

            The hope is that this gathering will help encourage people to be missionaries who will help bring people back to the practice of their faith. There is a deep need for church community right now. The Eucharistic Congress reminds us of this fact.

            May Our Lady pray for us during the Eucharistic revival.

            Fr. Mark