That is an incident which has much to teach us.  First, life for the Christian is no haphazard affair of rushing now this way, now that.  It is a purposeful pilgrimage in which we know, love and serve God and finally come to the end for which every human being has been created, which is to see our Creator and to share his life for ever.

Yet for many a Christian the pilgrimage itself is full of restless activity which seems to be more of a hindrance than a help in pursuing that purpose and direction and goal.  Are we not often conscious of that as we review each day and each week as it comes to an end?  So much rush and bustle, so much attempted, so little achieved, and so much waiting to be done.

And we become so weary.  And not only wearied with the bustle of the world, but wearied too with the constant conflict between our conscience and our will; wearied with the never-ending struggle against temptation; wearied with our falls into sin; and all the time there is the temptation to give up in despair.  And perhaps at times we even wonder if Jesus really knows and understands and cares.

And then we hear his call, “Come to me, all you that labour, and are burdened, and I will refresh you…and you shall find rest to your souls” (Douay-Rheims Bible, Matthew 11:28,29, our emphasis, see note below).  Yes, however varied may be the needs of those who follow Jesus, he knows all and he has compassion on all.