This morning I was enjoying a cup of coffee on my patio. I heard the voice of a raven who frequently perches in one of our trees. I thought of Jesus’ words to his disciples:
“Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds!” (Lk. 12:24).
Non-stop headlines about the invasion of Ukraine have the attention of the world. Threats of a nuclear war encourage a degree of tension.
We can’t escape anxiety: If it’s war or concern for our children, inflation, or pandemic stress. Natural disasters or fear of not being able to find employment, -- there is no shortage of apprehension.
Distress can range anywhere from concern to fear and even terror! As wonderful as our world is, we cannot escape grief.
A new location may seem attractive. But it will not eliminate stress. A new job may be desirable, but it will not remove worry. A new relationship may be tempting, but you will soon encounter strife. War is deplorable, but the desire for power and control will always encourage conflict.
We can choose to medicate stress and numb our emotions with our “drug of choice,” but as long as we live in this world, anxiety is -- and always be -- a part of life!
Jesus cautions that the “cares of the world” can hinder the life of faith and distract us from participating in the kingdom of God.
Today, a raven was a gift to remind me: Life consists far more than what I eat or wear. If God can feed the raven, God is more than capable of providing what we need.
What are you worried about today? Jesus reminds you: “Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows” (Lk. 12:7b).