Jesus began to denounce the cities in which most of his
mighty works had been done, because they didn’t repent. “Woe to you, Chorazin!
Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon
which were done in you, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and
ashes. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the Day
of Judgment than for you. You, Capernaum, who are exalted to heaven, you will
go down to Hades. For if the mighty works had been done in Sodom which were
done in you, it would have remained until today. But I tell you that it will be
more tolerable for the land of Sodom, on the Day of Judgment, than for you.”
At that time, Jesus prayed, “I thank you, Father, Lord of
heaven and earth, that you hid these things from the wise and learned, and
revealed them to children. Yes, Father, for so it was well-pleasing in your
sight.
Jesus said, “All things have been delivered to me by my
Father. No one knows the Son, except the Father; neither does anyone know the
Father, except the Son, and those to whom the Son desires to reveal him.
“Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and
I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; I am gentle and
humble in heart; and you will find rest for your souls. My yoke is easy, and my
burden is light.”
Reflection
Jesus spoke harsh words to those in positions of power
and privilege who refused to respond in faith even when Jesus did miracles in
their midst. His message to those in distress, however, was a tender and gentle
invitation to come and find rest. What parallels can you think of today? Would
you be more comfortable issuing a challenge to those in power or offering hope
to those in distress?
Prayer: Show me the right message, Lord, for those who
find themselves in very different situations.
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