Thursday, July 16, 2020
Scripture for the Day
The question was posed to our family members: if one worry could go away, what would it be?
We each shared what was on our hearts. I even tried to slip in two worries that I wished would go away! We were given sacred windows into each other’s souls.
Then we read the scripture passage from Matthew 6.
What does it mean if we focus on God’s good creation and seek to trust God’s providential care for us more and to worry less? I got to visit a Georgia beach for the first time in my life this week! As we were sitting outside breathing in the fresh air, Luke spotted a big bird in a tree. I took a picture and sent it to one of my dear birding friends, Florida Huff. I found out we were observing a wood stork. I soaked in the beauty of this bird and the message in our text of God’s great care for the birds and for us.
After we consider God’s great care for us, we might ask ourselves: what if we spend more energy striving first for the Kingdom of God rather than worrying about these things?
“So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” We all said, “AMEN”, to that.
Then Tony invited us to think about the message in the text that reminded him that sometimes he is worrying about the wrong things. In the days that followed, it was a meaningful exercise for me to ask myself: what am I worrying about that is not helping me to become more of the person God has created me to be? What should I be worrying about/focusing on more acutely that follows more faithfully in the way of Jesus?
Brothers and sisters in Christ, we each know that we have plenty to be concerned about in these days. First, let us not carry these burdens alone. By naming a couple of my worries out loud, I literally felt a weight lifted and I knew my family was helping me carry the load. And, I loved being able to know how to pray for and support my family members as they named what was on their hearts. Second, let us draw near to God as God draws near to us. God has not given us a spirit of fear and darkness, but a spirit of life and light. Let us commit to spiritual practices that help us to be anchored in these truths. As always, please reach out to any staff at FPC for support if you’re feeling stuck. Third, and finally, what are you worrying about that is a dead end worry? What are you worrying about that does not lead to life and light for you and for all people? What do you need to be spending more time and energy concerning yourself about?
It’s good to be on this journey together. Let us pray:
Dear Lord Jesus,
We call to mind the birds of the air and the lilies of the field and how You care for them. Refresh us, by the power of your Holy Spirit.
Bring us peace and comfort where we find ourselves worrying.
Lead us to be brave and courageous as we seek to follow in Your way.
Amen.
