Are you not more important than they?

 

 

In reading Jesus’ reference to “serving two masters” in Matthew’s gospel (Matthew 6: 24-34), I am reminded that we can only live in the present, that’s all we are given, and that when we tend to dwell on the past, for all it was, and perhaps never was, we live in a world of “if only” and are often depressed. We don’t live there anymore. Likewise, when we live in the future of what might be, will be, never be, we find ourselves in a perpetual state of apprehension and “anxiety.” We don’t live in the future. We only live in the present, this very moment. 

It seems to me that “anxiety” and “serving two masters” are the same in that they create the same inner turmoil characterized by being divided within oneself. An anxious person is often tossed to and fro and paralyzed by indecision. Fear of some bad outcome that likely will never occur can virtually paralyze those who are anxious. 

Who is the master of our life? Our “master” is that which governs our thoughts; controls desires of the heart, and shapes the values we choose to live by. We can be ruled by many different material things…the love of money or possessions; the lure of status; the glamor of wealth and prestige…all of which can be an unhealthy driving forces of unruly passion and attachments. 

Jesus tells us that we have a choice, either God or “mammon,” defined as greed and excessive materialism…and cites a beautiful image in nature to make his point: Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they? Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span? 

Jesus admonishes us to put away anxiety and preoccupation with material things and put God first in our lives. God knows our needs even before we do or even ask, and he gives generously to those who trust in him.

Co-creating life’s purpose means being guided by your heart, noticing, listening and making it up as you go, all the while trusting the universe, having faith in God. In the days, weeks, years ahead, you will know when adjustments need to be made. The important thing is to begin. Trust that by saying yes to the invitation to participate, doors will open and signs will guide your way. (Michael Dowd, Thank God for Evolution)

When we live God-centered lives in the way of Jesus we come to know the peace that defies all understanding