The gospel reading appointed for today is that passage from Matthew where Jesus reminds us not to worry. Solomon in all his glory couldn't match the beauty of the flowers of the field.
Worrying won't add an hour to our days ... indeed ... it is likely to take days off our lives.... and we'll not grow taller by being anxious either!
To put God first gives a peace that is a source of strength in all the ups and downs of life. Things don't always go as we plan ... but whatever happens we know that God is our "refuge and strength ... a very present help in time of trouble."
Almighty God,
you have created the heavens and the earth
and made us in your own image:
Teach us to discern your hand in all your works
and your likeness in all your children;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who with you and the Holy Spirit
reigns supreme over all things, now and for ever.
Amen.
Book of Common Prayer
Collect of the Second Sunday before Lent.
3 comments:
"To put God first gives a peace that is a source of strength in all the ups and downs of life". I have found this to be true, but also that it's so easy to become preoccupied with what's less important. I was preaching on the same Matthew 6: 25-34 gospel reading yesterday, having (ironically) spent much of the previous few days worrying about the sermon. (Preoccupied with things to do with my pride!)I should have spent more time looking at the many snowdrops in our garden. Thank you for you photos - absolutely beautiful.
Thanks Nancy .... I like it when people leave comments! Worry grips us so easily .... this gospel is a good reminder.
Although I am not a worrier, I do find that my occasional "faithless fears and worldly anxieties" (from a prayer in our Book of Common Prayer) are easier to let go when there are new spring flowers and dogs (and robins and red-winged blackbirds and horses rolling in the fresh spring mud...) to watch. Friend Philip has no daffodils yet at the Deanery in Cashel, Tipperary but lots of snow drops; I called this morning to warn him that the "American girls" were showing up in April and also let him know about KJV@4:00!
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