Fear Not: God Is Watching Over Us
Dear Parishioners,
The readings of this Sunday are beautiful and easily understandable. I would like to point out the second reading in which St. Paul writes to the Philippians: “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and mind in Christ Jesus.” This is wonderful advice for each one of us in every phase of our life. We must try to live without anxiety and fear. Of course we will have crises and problems and health issues. However, we have a gentle and loving God who will listen to our every prayer. This loving God understands what is going on in our lives. And so we pray with complete confidence because “if God is with us, who can be against us?” Therefore, we pray with thanksgiving. We give thanks to God even for the trials and difficulties that we face.
Here is a very personal application. When I was told that I had leukemia, I was shocked because I had previously had excellent health. However, on reflection, I realized that leukemia was really a gift that made me realize how precious life is. I came to see leukemia as a wake-up call, and it made me analyze my life and the time that God has given to me. It also made me realize that I needed the prayers of my friends to cope with this challenge. And so I came to the point of giving thanks to God for the gift of cancer.
I encourage you also to reflect upon the challenges and problems of your life, and to see them in the light of faith. Our gentle and loving Father-God will see us through and be with us every step of the way, just as the Father was with His Son Jesus in His sufferings. Real life and Resurrection is waiting.
Peace,
Fr. John Maxwell
