Homily For Wednesday the Second Week of Advent Year A, 7th December, 2022.The Memorial of St. Ambrose

Readings Isa. 40:25-31; Ps 103; Matt. 11:28-30

Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Emenike Onyia.

 COME TO THE LORD WITH YOUR BURDENS OF LIFE AND YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOUL

The ugly condition of our country today really places a heavy burden and stress on us and often times these burdens are so heavy that we don’t know how to carry them. The worst of these burdens is the sorrow we bear in our hearts: sorrows caused by our sins, unhealthy relationship, unforgiveness and family problems. 

Little wonder in our Gospel reading, Jesus invites us to come to him just as we are. He recognizes the sorrows in our lives, how we labour and are overburdened. This invitation should opens a refreshing space in our soul, by inspiring hope and drawing us into his loving and gentle presence who is always with us. This what we see in the life of St. Ambrose whose memorial we celebrate today, for in St. Ambrose the native Roman genius shines out with surpassing distinctness; he is clear, sober, practical, and aims always at persuading his hearers to act with prudence and presence their burdens to God in faith. He embrace the faith and mission of our Lord Jesus to the point that he was made a bishop even when he was still a catechumen.

Dear friends, Jesus, wants to listen to all of our troubles, and assures us that his yoke is easy and his burden is light. When we spend time with Jesus we find rest for our souls. He speaks to us in the silence of our hearts and gives us inner peace. Therefore, why carrying your burdens alone? Jesus is willing to help you, for he promised that when we are troubled and turn to him, he will help us. So let us trust in his word.

LET US PRAY: Heavenly Father, we are carrying heavy burdens of this passing world, as we present this burdens before you, may we find rest for our souls. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. Remain blessed.