The Lodestar

Jesus spoke to an impoverished crowd. During his time, about ninety per cent of the Roman Empire's population was poor, and there was no middle class—the majority were extremely poor, and a minority were extremely rich. Only five per cent of the Roman population could read and write, and even many emperors were illiterate.

Many people in Jesus' audience were concerned about their basic needs. Many only had one tunic. If they wanted to buy bread or drink, they needed money, and to earn money, they had to work. They worried about what they would wear if their only outer garment became ripped or stained. These anxieties were very real.

My readers may not worry about clothing and food for daily sustenance. I mean, who has time for that nonsense? If we ever do find ourselves in a panic, it is usually over which outfit in our overflowing wardrobe makes us look like the dazzling stars we are or debating whether we should indulge in a slice of cake or merely a single grape to meet our daily calorie quota. Decisions, decisions! It is a tough life, but hey, someone has got to keep the fashion and dessert industries thriving!

If paucity caused anxiety for Jesus' original audience, plenty is the modern cause of anxiety. Ancient or modern, anxiety is the common denominator.

Jesus' lesson for us is evident. First, whatever triggers anxiety, ancient or modern, is not in line with godly thinking. "For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows you need them all" (Matt 6:32).

Second, Christ's followers should know that the heavenly Father "knows" our needs before we do. "Know" has a wide range of meanings besides cognition. For someone to tell us in an assuring tone, "I know," that implies he has taken cognisance of the situation and is ready to provide.

Recognising our needs is not a flaw; it’s a part of our human experience. However, trying to fulfil those needs without turning to the Lord is a grave mistake. When we fret over what he has already promised to provide—our most basic needs—we are undermining his infinite power and faithfulness. We must place our trust wholeheartedly in his provision and cast aside our anxieties. Remember, he has assured us of His care; let us embrace that truth and live with bold confidence!

Understanding our needs and recognising our limits is essential for our well-being. In times of rising anxiety, when the tension is palpable and emotions are on the brink, it is vital to entrust these burdens to the Lord. By doing so, we transform potential explosions of stress into opportunities for peace, allowing faith to guide us through turmoil. Let us be proactive in managing our inner turmoil and seek divine support before the pressure builds to a breaking point. Embracing this practice can lead to profound calm and clarity in even the most challenging moments.

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