Today’s scripture: Matthew 6:26 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Sue Robinson):
I don’t know about everyone, but I am fascinated with the TV show, “Doomsday Preppers.” It is a series about people who are preparing for any scenario that might occur in which they would need food, weapons, and survival equipment stockpiled. These people are very dedicated and serious about these tasks.
There is also a religious denomination which teaches that every family needs one year’s food, water, and necessities stored for each family member. Even though they are sincere in their beliefs, some who have left this church have said that these teachings have caused their families severe financial hardships. They have spent so much time and effort stockpiling that the burden was too great to keep up.
Today’s scripture seems to take us in the opposite direction. “Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”
So, do we prepare for any and all eventualities, trying to make sure we are covered by our own efforts against any tragedy that could befall us, or do we sit back and do nothing and let God take care of us? Are the only two choices either “fall into crazy” about preparing, or become lazy and make God our magic genie to provide our every need?
Might it just be that God wants us to know that God is there and that we should trust his leading? God will provide for God’s children, sometimes in unusual ways and through unsuspecting people. But when we choose to leave all of our future in our own hands, we are forgetting that God holds the reins.
Prayer for the day: Thank you, Lord, that we can leave our days in your hands. Like you do for the birds of the air, you will do for us. Amen.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.