Scripture:
2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Matthew 6: 24-34
Reflection:
“Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life…”(Matthew 6:25)
I have friends, a married couple, that have both been out of work for several years. They never seemed to worry all the while praying and reading the scriptures daily. When I asked about their situation they would say: “God will provide”. This couple really believed that God would pull them through. A couple of months ago, they both got jobs. I will be honest. I don’t think I have that kind of faith and trust in God.
As we all know, there will be tough times in life. Jesus says don’t worry about tomorrow God will take care of that. Be calm because life is tough at times. The key is how do we respond to these difficult times when we are tempted to worry excessively. We are called to discern God’s presence and stay focused on the kingdom of God in our lives . Our Lord instructs us not to worry or be overly anxious but to strive toward being just in all that we do. On a worry and anxiety scale of 1 to 10, 10 being excessive worry, where would we place our concern and worry over material things? The Lord instructs us not to worry but seek first the kingdom of God.
Dear God, give us the faith and wisdom to discern your priorities and not worry nor be anxious about material needs.
Carl Middleton is a theologian/ethicist and a member of the Passionist Family.