Thought and Prayer of the Day
by Deacon Gary Gannon
December 11, 2025
‘Tis the season of joy and good will; of hustle and bustle; and anticipating good things “in small packages” coming our way later this month. Well, here is such a small package for you.
One of the possible Gospel readings for this week is from Matthew 11:28-30. It is only three verses, just fifty-four words in the NRSV style of the New Testament! Yes, this gift includes some curious language – for example “yoke”. Yet for some of us, and for a variety of reasons at this time of year, such a gift is indeed Good News.
To prove my point, I now share with you this reading from Matthew’s gospel as presented in a contemporary translation of the Bible, known as The Message, by Eugene Peterson.
Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me – watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.
There is indeed joy in this small gift given to us by our Lord. One does not have to wait until Christmas Day to open it. Jesus’ offer is immediate; saying “Come to me.” Now.
This same gift offers a promise of rest and recovery from your past and present burdens. It calls for a journey of companionship and learning. Like with many gifts, there is also a call to action and studying how things will work.
In the most wonderful sense, this small gift, of a mere three verses from the Bible, is indeed priceless in terms of its promise, fulfillment, and yes – an extended warranty.
Prayer
Loving God, please grant me peace of mind and calm my troubled heart. My soul is like a turbulent sea. I can’t seem to find my balance so I stumble and worry constantly. Give me the strength and clarity of mind to find my purpose and walk the path you’ve laid out for me. Amen.
from Xavier University
