Do Not Worry

In Matthew 6: 31-34 Jesus says, “So do not worry, saying, ?What shall we eat?? or ?What shall we drink?? or ?What shall we wear?? For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

Jesus puts his credibility, and our faith, on the line with this teaching. For many of us, it’s easier to trust Jesus with our future resurrection than with our daily bread. Here, what Jesus says is so practical, so everyday, that he forces us to decide whether or not we really believe he knows what he’s talking about.

Is this really the way the world works? If so, then how does God go about dispensing food, drink, and clothes to those who have made his kingdom a number one priority?

When we read this teaching as individuals, it seems impossible. But if we read it as a community, a group of people gathering around Jesus, then maybe it’s not so unrealistic.

Could it be that the reason Jesus is able to makes such a bold promise is that he expects his followers to take care of each other in their time of need? Could one of the benefits of being a part of a community of faith be that we no longer have to worry about the things loners do?

In uncertain economic times like these, could members of a community of faith say to each other, “Don’t worry about losing your job. Don’t worry about going hungry. Don’t worry about keeping your kids in warm clothes this winter. We will take care of you in your time of need.

Maybe Jesus is right. If we’re seeking first the kingdom of God, which includes living in community with others, then what do we have to worry about?