I come from a long line of worriers. Worriers and stew-ers – people who would catastrophize about events and plans. Usually, the dire imaginings were just imaginings, and things worked out, as things often do. The Negative Nellies I knew always rationalized the negative outlook by announcing that if things would, be some chance go right, they would be happy to be proven wrong. I confess that I too find it hard not to worry. My outlook is mostly positive, but my imagination can run away with the what-ifs. We all wish for a little more control over the events and people in our lives. We don’t have that control and worrying will not change any outcome.
In today’s gospel, Jesus asks some great questions. “Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?” And especially this one: “Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span?”
Jesus does not mean to make light of our concerns. People’s lives can be difficult and faced with heavy decisions and problems. It’s easy to get caught up in the spiral of worry. What are we missing if we are always worrying about what might happen? The gospel ends with the admonition that God knows we need food and clothing. We should start with God in the here and now. This doesn’t mean bad things won’t happen. Jesus says: “Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself.”
My prayer: To do what I can to make the world a better place. To work hard for the dignity of all in my own way. To take a deep breath and trust in God. To pray for those who are facing hardships, difficult decisions or life events beyond their control. I pray to be present, really present in the here and now and to trust that God loves me.
Carol Zuegner
Writing and reading the Daily Reflections helps me connect with my faith.
