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Reflection on this Sunday's scripture readings
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Zechariah 9:9-10
Psalm 144
Romans 8:9.11-13
Matthew 11:25-30
In today's first reading the prophet Zechariah looks forward to a time when a new king inaugurates a peaceful reign in Jerusalem. The preceding verse tells us that no foreign neighbour will be able to control the kingdom of Judah as God's house is there in its capital. So God's presence will ensure peace and the king will be able to enter the city, not riding a horse - an animal of war - but a donkey. Peace will spread from Jerusalem to the rest of the inhabited world. The New Testament authors interpreted this passage as a messianic reference to Jesus as the King who brings peace and salvation to the world.
In the Gospel reading Jesus appears as the exclusive revealer of divine wisdom. He addresses God according to a typical Jewish blessings formula but with the intimate addition of "Abba", Father. Jesus claims unique access to the knowledge and love of the Father and a reciprocal knowledge and love which he hands on to those whom he chooses. Jesus invites all who labour and are overburdened to come to him and he, the personification of wisdom, gives the feminine qualities of rest and comfort. The disciple is invited to learn from Jesus in his life and teachings.
Listen to Jesus speaking those words of comfort to you today. Can you allow him to take your burdens and ease your mind?
Paul tells us that the Spirit of God made his home in each of us at our baptism. Ask yourself how God's presence within you can help you become a vehicle of peace for others.