Matthew 6:28b-29 – Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. (NKJV)

As winter's first snowflakes began to fall, they danced about like glittering confetti. Within an hour or two, the landscape outside had turned from dull green into the most brilliant white. The surrounding fields of lilies bowed their heads and bade farewell until next spring, disappearing underneath layers of billowy snow. As if by divine intervention, each flower fell into a deep winter sleep, and neither the howling winds, nor the creaking sounds of pine trees above could disturb their peaceful slumber.

They were oblivious that the world around them continued to battle the COVID-19 pandemic and that society is suffering from anxiety and depression more than ever before. The fear of death or losing a loved one keeps many tossing and turning. Studies show that this is the number-one fear, and yet few people — even those living in the Christian community — want to discuss it or share their feelings.

Jesus spoke heart-to-heart about fear and anxiety. Today's text is from His Sermon on the Mount, where He went on to say, "Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not worry …" (Matthew 6:30-31a NKJV) He used creation as living proof of the Creator's beauty, compassion, and care. He asks us to trust and have faith in our heavenly Father's perfect care. After all, we are created in His image.

If you or someone you love is experiencing brokenness, depression, or feelings of unworthiness, I can tell you from personal experience that if you take your first step and reach out for Jesus, you will find a peace like none other. A loving, healthy relationship is built on trust. The more that we surrender to the healing power of God, the sooner that doubt, fear, and worry will fade away, and you will begin to look forward to springtime and a fresh beginning.

At the end of this section of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus revealed what should be the most significant goal in our lives — a verse that every Christian should commit to memory: "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33 NKJV)

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank You for being the God Who never sleeps, watching over us both night and day. Thank You that You are love and that You want the very best for Your children. Thank You for keeping all Your promises. Help us to rest in the fact that You know what is best for us. Forgive us for those times when we try to control difficult situations in our lives. You are not the God of confusion but of peace. So, help us, Father, to rest in Your love and to feel Your peace that surpasses all understanding. Amen.

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About the author:

Lois Macdonald <loismacs5@gmail.com>
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
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