Today’s gospel is short but packed with consolation. Picture Jesus carrying his cross and barely making it to Calvary. Heavily bruised, completely exhausted. Soaked and dripping with blood, mixed with sweat. He was hungry, thirsty, and feeling abandoned by his Father. So rightly, he tells us to come and learn from him. He talked the talk and walked the walk. And he did all that, not because he was guilty, but simply to save us. Who will not want to come and learn from such a loving God? Who will not want to be comforted by such a merciful and compassionate God? Who will think that their burden is more than his? That he will not be able to lessen their burden and give them rest? “My yoke is easy, my burden light” he tells us. If you doubt him, try the Devil’s yoke and burden! Like Jesus, our saint for today, St. Lucy, also suffered torture and was unjustly killed. She trusted Jesus with her burden, and was not disappointed. 

Prayer: Compassionate Father, as we prepare to celebrate the birth of your Son, draw us closer to you, and give us rest from our burden. Amen.