Jesus said to the crowds: “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest…” During this busy season of Advent, this invitation from Jesus to rest is quite appealing. And while we know Jesus to be a man of his word, today’s readings offer so much more than a chance to take a break from holiday celebrations and all the tasks associated with the end of a semester.
As I prayed with today’s reading, a memory from years ago came to mind. I was working to create a non-profit agency focusing on conflict resolution. Despite the many needs in the community, there was little momentum in getting the agency off the ground. One day, I broke down in exhaustion and frustration. In that low moment, I realized that things were not working because I was trying to do it all alone. From that point on, I invited board members and volunteers to get involved in creative ways. And I formed partnerships in the community that are still strong today. I heard the voice of Jesus in today’s Gospel from Matthew: “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.” Being inspired by Jesus to turn my back on the hubris of taking on all the responsibility for the agency and choosing instead to become meek and humble of heart, I found the strength to be a true peacemaker for people grappling with conflict.
But how is it that such a life-changing lesson can be forgotten? There have been many times when I have felt I was carrying a burden alone before remembering God is with me. The reading from Isaiah reminds us: 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. This brings me hope when I feel exhausted and overwhelmed by devastating local, national, and world events. God is asking us to truly live our faith. To take action when possible. To listen to learn. To advocate for those who need support. With God, we will have renewed strength to meet life’s challenges.
When we are feeling alone or exhausted or demoralized or angry or shame, we can find comfort in the image of God in today’s Psalm. He pardons all your iniquities; He heals all your ills. He redeems your life from destruction; He crowns you with kindness and compassion. What a beautiful promise!
In this season of Advent, I reflect on these questions: How can I help someone know they are not alone? What will help me remember that God will renew my strength? Where can I take action to make a difference, knowing that I am not carrying the burden alone?
And today I pray for the grace to appreciate God in the small, quiet moments of my life.
Merciful and gracious is the LORD, slow to anger and abounding in kindness.
Mary Lee Brock
Here at Creighton University, I serve as the Director of the Negotiation and Conflict Resolution (NCR) program and as an Assistant Professor in the Heider College of Business. The mission of the NCR program is to prepare agents of social change to engage and resolve conflict effectively, efficiently and humanely. As a conflict engagement educator, facilitator and conflict coach, I encourage individuals and groups to develop conflict competency essential to personal, professional and community growth.
Being in community with others is where my faith grows and where I am encouraged to love and serve others. My life is blessed with a loving family, loyal friends and the occasional rough patch to keep it real. The online ministry community is rich, far flung faith sharing community of which I am honored to be a member.
