Yoke

First Reading

Sirach 50:1, 3-4, 6-7

1The leader of his brethren and the pride of his people was Simon the high priest, son of Onias, who in his life repaired the house, and in his time fortified the temple. 3In his days a cistern for water was quarried out, a reservoir like the sea in circumference. 4He considered how to save his people from ruin, and fortified the city to withstand a seige. 6Like the morning star among the clouds, like the moon when it is full; 7like the sun shining upon the temple of the Most High, and like the rainbow gleaming in glorious clouds; 

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Responsorial Psalm

Psalms 16:1-2, 5, 7-8, 11

1Preserve me, O God, for in thee I take refuge. 2I say to the LORD, "Thou art my Lord; I have no good apart from thee." 5The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; thou holdest my lot. 7I bless the LORD who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me. 8I keep the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. 11Thou dost show me the path of life; in thy presence there is fulness of joy, in thy right hand are pleasures for evermore.

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Second Reading

Galatians 6:14-18

14But far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.  15For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.  16Peace and mercy be upon all who walk by this rule, upon the Israel of God.  17Henceforth let no man trouble me; for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.  18The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen.

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Gospel

Matthew 11:25-30

25At that time Jesus declared, "I thank thee, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes;  26yea, Father, for such was thy gracious will.  27All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.  28Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  30For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."