What is a yoke? A yoke is a wooden crosspiece that is fastened onto the necks of a pair of animals to plow or pull something. It was also a crossbeam for a person to carry pails or baskets on their neck and shoulders. Both cases fit with what Jesus is saying in today’s Gospel. If we fasten ourselves next to Christ, not only will He direct us where to go, but He will do most of the work. When it feels like we are carrying the world on our shoulders and its weight is dragging us down, Jesus tells us to surrender everything  and to take up His yoke for its weight is light.

A great example of this is Atlas and the Infant of Prague statue. We see how man thinks of the burden of the world as on its back and we buckle underneath its weight. However, when looking at a statue of the Infant, we see Jesus holding the whole world in one of His tiny hands. He shows us that when we place that heavy burden that’s breaking our backs on him, He can turn it all into a small paperweight easily carried in one small hand.

Why did Jesus speak in this manner? Why did he mention a yoke and releasing burden? Jesus was referring to the last chapter of Sirach where it says, “Come aside to me, you untutored, and take up lodging in the house of instruction...Submit your neck to her yoke, that your mind may accept her teaching.  For she is close to those who seek her, and the one who is earnest finds her.” [1]

When we humble ourselves to God’s Will, we find greater joy and reward than we could ever have by chasing our own will. Sirach concludes with these same statements, “See for yourselves! I have labored only a little, but have found much. Acquire but a little instruction; you will win silver and gold through her. Let your spirits rejoice in the mercy of God, and be not ashamed to give him praise. Work at your tasks in due season, and in his own time God will give you your reward.” [2]

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