July 19, 2018 Thursday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time-B
Isaiah 26:7-9, 12, 16-19
Psalm 102
Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” Mt. 11:28
Lord, you invite us to come to you to be relieved of our burdens. Thanks to your cross we have the offering of eternal life when we will truly be in your rest and your peace forever. You give us hope that one day we will fully enjoy your rest. In the meantime we are oppressed by so many things. We have so much on our “to do” lists that never seem to get done. Responsibilities pile up and the time to accomplish what is before us is so short. Obstacles to progress can seem too much and we are tempted to give up. Lord, when I feel this way, show me that you want me to depend on you, trust you, and expect that you will see me through all the burdens life brings. Turning to you won’t make what oppresses me disappear but I will be connected to you and your strength. Lord, may I lean on you for support and encouragement. When I realize that I don’t face the world alone but have you as my ally I can be confident I will not be overcome. May I today rest in your arms and your peace. Amen.