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Hello St. John’s Family,
It seems that few days pass by without some type of news update or report that reminds us how anxious we are. Often, these updates note the staggering amount of anxiety, stress, worry, and depression that young people experience today. Which is true: the weight and pressure that so many of our young people face is incredible. Anyone who has tried to guide a high school student through the process of applying to colleges or trade schools quickly learns how the complexity and pressure of that process has increased exponentially in recent years. Ditto with the expected commitments required to participate in sports, music, or dance programs. And that doesn’t even mention the reality of social media and constant connection… which leads to constant comparisons – often to meticulously curated images that offer only a glimpse of the real story. Given the pressures so many young people face, it’s no wonder that so many struggle with anxiety and worry.
Yet I sense that we all wrestle with anxiety and worry a lot more than we realize. We worry about safety. Just yesterday there was a horrific shooting at a Septa Bus Stop in Philly that injured 8 in broad daylight, while the New York Governor announced the National Guard would be sent to the NY Subway system after a string of violent crimes. We worry about our families. So many today face the pressure of caring for children and parents; or caring for spouses and grandchildren. We worry about the mess this world has become. Several people have commented to me that they do not even watch the news anymore, as it’s too depressing to watch. I am not exempt from this either. Honest reflection shows how I often worry about the many responsibilities I have… including the weekly Cornerstone note. What in the world am I going to write, that will hopefully connect with someone – this thought is often going through my mind as the clock ticks by.
Reflection shows us that worry is something very few of us do not encounter and struggle with at various points in our lives. Perhaps that is why Jesus addresses worry head-on early in his teaching ministry. As he asks why do you worry? (Matt. 6:28), Jesus quickly affirms that God knows our needs. Suggesting that our worries have more to do with our strivings than our actual needs, Jesus points to a better way to approach life. A way that will enable worries to be replaced with contentment and peace.
This Sunday in worship we’ll hear Jesus ask each one of us why do you worry? I hope you read Matthew 6:25-34, and then join me as we seek out the better way Jesus points us to. Don’t forget to “Spring Ahead” one hour into Daylight Savings time… and join me at 9am & 10:30am on Sunday!
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Brad
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