In the first reading we see how Moses encounters God at the burning bush and God commissions him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Moses express- es concern about how the Israelites will respond to him and asks for God’s name to validate his mission. God reveals himself as “I am who I am”. He is self-existent and not dependent on anything or anyone. God assures Moses that he will be with him as he leads the Israelites out of Egypt. When we strive to do God’s will, we often forget our identity: to whom we belong and who is sending us. In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus offers an invitation to rest. Jesus assures us that our burden will be light as long as we are willing to say “yes” to take the yoke, and learn from him. The Israelites’ deliverance from Egypt leads to freedom and rest in the Promised Land. Similarly, Jesus offers spiritual rest to those weary from sin. He walks with us on our journey, lightening our burdens, and leading us to the place of rest that he has prepared.

PRAYER: Abba Father, thank you for your presence in my life. Let me not forget that I am yours and you are sending me out. Amen.