During These Times

Paul writes, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

 

As Dallas County moves the COVID-19 Alert back to red, for most of us, the words of Paul seem to be a stretch. Anxiety is the new norm for most American’s these days. We are anxious about our health, jobs, families, and future. I ask the question, “can we live without anxiety?”

 

To be clear, some folks have anxiety disorders. These are NOT the people this article addresses. For some, anxiety is a struggle even when things are going well. No, I am speaking to the folks who experience anxiety from outside influences. (In other words, anxiety, and worry brought on by changing circumstances out of one’s control.)

 

So, can we live without anxiety? According to St. Paul, the answer is “yes!” How you may ask, can this be accomplished in a world thrown into chaos by COVID-19?! Well, Paul was living in a time of turmoil brought on by a roman ruler and his petty minions who controlled their areas with fear and threat. Paul tells us that we CAN live without anxiety by trusting that God is in control of our peace because God knows our anxieties.

 

I offer the above scripture for your meditation this week. I ask that you mark, read, and inwardly digest the words of St. Paul. And that you begin to trust that God will offer His peace if we ask for it through prayer. If you find yourself anxious about anything, make your offer/request to God through prayer and petition. And God will give you the peace that passes our human understanding. And this peace will guard your heart and mind in Jesus Christ.

 

To have anxiety and worry is human, while peace is of God. So, go in peace to love and serve the Lord…let this be your spiritual worship this week.

 

Fr. Michael+