GOSPEL READING
THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW
Thanksgiving: Mt 11,25-30
Note the three sayings from Jesus in these verses, two forming a thanksgiving and the third an invitation.
Whilst the first two are also found in Luke, Lk 10,21-22, the context in Luke is different. Further, by adding the third saying which is unique to him, Matthew has made the whole a unit which is special to his Gospel.
Consider how the first and third sayings provide a frame for the middle one.
Note the word which dominates verses 25-27.
The first saying therefore is verses 25-26. Notice how it is introduced and the phrase found in some but not all translations. What might be its purpose?
See how Jesus' words are similar to Sirach 51,1 or Psalm Psalm 136,26.
For the wise and clever, see Is 29,14. Who might the infants be?
Verse 27 then states the content of the revelation. Note the emphasis in the verse. "Handed over" is stated again at the very end of the Gospel, 28,18. See also 16,17. Note too how similar this is to the Gospel of John, for example, Jn 14,10.
Compare this to Exodus 33,12-13: what is the difference between Moses and Jesus?
Consider the style of the third saying, 11,28-30. What are the two contrasting words and the paradox. For background, look at Sir 24, especially Sir 24,23-24.
For verse 28, consider 23,4. Also Is 29,14
Then look at Exodus 33,14 and Deut 12,9-10, Josh 1,13. See also Jer 6,16; Ps 95,11.
The yoke in verse 29 is found also in Sirach 51,25-26, Sir 6,30. What is its meaning there?
Look also at Num 12,3.
How is the yoke of Jesus in verse 30 easy?
Look now at my response.
Chapter 11
11,25-30 form a climax to this chapter. We will see how they are followed up in chapter 12.
Now though, it is important to pause and reflect this chapter 11 as a whole. How has the question in 11,3 been answered?
For some thoughts on this, have another look at my response.
The Sunday Gospel
These verses at the end of chapter 11 form the Gospel for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time. This is the only Gospel reading from chapters 11 and 12. Consider therefore the setting of this Gospel within these chapters.
The Old Testament reading comes from the prophet Zechariah, Zec 9,9-10. See how this oracle is used later by Matthew, 21,5. Reflect on how this reading is appropriate for this Sunday's Gospel. The theme of the readings given in italics may help.
The look again at my response.
Let us now move on to the chapter 12.