My yoke is easy and my burden light.

Dear friend,

Advent is a season of anticipation and reflection as we await the birth of Jesus, our King. In the midst of our preparations and busyness, today’s Gospel calls us to intentionally rest with Him.

Jesus says in the Gospel, “Come to me, all who are weary and heavy burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Mt 11:28) Jesus knew, and even now knows, the weight of the world, the weight of your heart, and it’s easy for us to get caught up with the busyness of this Advent and Christmas season.

I couldn’t help but to reflect on the words that Christ himself might have said to you today:

“My son, my daughter, when your cross is too heavy, all I ask is for you to lay your burdens down at the foot of my cross…to be with me in every moment of your life, the good and the bad. I know you are stressed. I know you are worried and consumed by many things. But I, the Lord, am here with you. I, the Lord, desire to give you rest. All I ask is for you to trust me. To surrender yourself to me.”

Jesus lovingly and humbly invites you to lean into his most sacred heart this Christmas… the sweet child that comes into this world desires you, your love. Our invitation to Christ is to rest with the newborn King, the peace and light of the world.

May we always remember that our burdens are lightened by the light of Christ, and may Jesus and Mary live in your hearts forever. Amen.

With prayers,

Amata