The biblical word "glory" can be translated as "weight," for example, a covering heavy enough to be felt. The Israelites sang of the Lord: "He has covered Himself in glory" (Ex 15:1, JB).

As we bask in the Lord's glory and worship Him "with unveiled faces," for example, in eucharistic adoration, we are clothed in God's light (2 Cor 3:18; 4:6). We are covered with the weight of God's glory, as was Moses (see Ex 33:11; 34:29ff). In this sense, we can say that His burden is light; that is, the weight of His glory which covers us is the light reflecting from the face of God.

Jesus says, "You are the light of the world" (Mt 5:14). He shines in your heart so you will "make known the glory of God shining on the face of Christ" (2 Cor 4:6). Recall when you were "filled with the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:4), and it was easy to radiate God's love to all. People were attracted to the light of Christ shining from your face (see Is 60:3). You were a "lamp, set aflame and burning bright" for Jesus (Jn 5:35). Eventually the weight, or burden, of glory simply became the weight of always having to be "on" for Jesus. You grew weary under this burden, and looked for relief outside of Jesus. You fell from your early love (see Rv 2:4). You avoided those who had flocked to you for a glimpse of the light of Christ shining through you.

Does this describe you? Have you put your light under a bushel basket? (Mt 5:15) Come to Jesus (Mt 11:28). He loves you! He will refresh you, for His burden is light, that is, the light of glory shining from His face, a light burden to bear (Mt 11:29-30).

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, January 18, 2013

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