I have to confess that I am a worrier. Sometimes I try to rationalize it by saying that I am just being responsible - that I want things done well, that I care about the details, but the truth is that some of the time I just feel anxious. Have I forgotten an appointment? Am I going to get my work done on time? Is there someone feeling neglected? Is there enough money in the chequing account if that bill goes through?
Is it just me or does life seem to be more complicated than it used to? Is there more to worry about these days? Besides my own little world, I turn on the TV and see a half-sunk luxury liner (just when I was getting my wife to warm up to the idea of a cruise), I see hundreds in Syria being killed daily, and then there is the specter of crazy people making a nuclear bomb in Iran. It's enough to give you an ulcer!
Jesus once said " So I tell you, don't worry about everyday life - whether you have enough food, drink, and clothes. Doesn't life consist of more than food and clothing? Look at the birds. They don't need to plant or harvest or put food in barns because your heavenly Father feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than they are. Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not!
...Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs, and he will give you all you need from day to day if you live for him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern. So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today."
When I read these words I am glad that in the last line Jesus acknowledges that every day has its troubles. I have never been attracted to some religion's goal of detachment from the realities of everyday life. But in the midst of our everyday worries, the challenge Jesus throws out to us, is for us to calm down and put our trust in God. Doesn't he do a pretty good job of taking care of creation? Do we not believe that he is looking out for us as well? Jesus makes us this promise, that if we are committed to living for him, God will give us everything we need from day to day. To really trust God in this way is a big challenge for us worriers, but deep down I know it's true. When I claim this truth, and am able to leave my anxieties with Him, my spirit breathes a sigh and I relax, at least in the moment.
(Oh my gosh, did I leave the garage door open....?)
