Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“He said to his disciples, ‘Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear.”
NL Daily Devotion for Thursday, February 25, 2021
by Dr. Kimberly Leetch, Clergy Stuff
Don't worry. Be happy.
Best text in the NT. I love to worry. I've turned anxiety into an art form. Truthfully, it doesn't really help a worrisome person to tell them not to worry. That only makes it worse. But, practicing the art of letting go, as suggested by this text, is something that, with time, can make all the difference. And it does take practice.
Recently I was speaking with a friend who was worrying because there were things in their life that were out of their control. And this person is very committed to controlling the things in their life. I told them to practice the art of not being in complete and utter control. I suggested they go home, do all the dishes, and then leave one fork in the sink. And then sit with the discomfort of knowing the dishes weren't all in their place. If they took the time to practice with the little things, the effort to sit uncomfortably with the bigger things would start to get easier.
For me, the practice includes reminding myself of Jesus' promise, that God would take care of the things we need. When I start to worry, I make a point to think back on the times I've worried in the past. Despite many unpleasant experiences, ultimately God did always see me through it. The older I get, and the more experiences I gain, the easier it becomes... Don't Worry. Be Happy.
