MONDAY

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 6:25-34

“Don’t Worry. Be Happy!” That’s the sentiment expressed in a popular song sung by Bobby McFerrin a number of years ago (YouTube - Link), that might come to mind when reflecting on this passage. While the song may seem a bit light-hearted, or even frivolous, what Jesus expresses here in the larger context of this week’s Key Text is something quite serious and transformative. Serious, not in the sense that it lacks joy or is out of step with the “easy yoke” and “light burden” that Jesus speaks about elsewhere (e.g., Matthew 11:30), which might indeed result in us singing a happy tune, but serious in the sense that trusting in God’s grace and provision at the very core of our lives results in meaningful changes. Whether we live in the grateful awareness of abundance and provision or the anxiety of there not being enough to go around, it changes things. It shapes who we are and how we engage those around us. While I think it is fair to say that Jesus is not saying we shouldn’t plan or make wise decisions in regard to the resources available to us or the very real needs we are aware of, he is clearly talking about the inner attitude we have as we do so and which impulses arise within us and which we need to be most attentive to (perhaps those rooted in gratitude and generosity over those grounded in anxiety and fear). As you reflect on the passage today, consider the following:

• When you think about the inner emotional music to which you move, or the kind of “tunes” that play in your head, do you find yourself moving more to the rhythms of worry, anxiety, and obligation, or to that of appreciation, grace, and generosity? If the tunes change from time to time, what do you think accounts for that?

• What would a community of people be like in which living the way that Jesus describes here would be supported and facilitated? Do you sometimes worry that without worry, things would not work? Explain.

• Can you think of examples of people who are both thoughtful and plan well, but also live with a sense of graciousness and generosity that seems to capture what Jesus is talking about here? Describe what that looks like.

• What Jesus is talking about does not seem to be tied to how much we have, but rather how we relate to what we have. Where are the growing edges for you as you reflect on what Jesus is inviting us to embrace here? What does it stir in you?

As you take a few moments to share with God in prayer, share about what you are hearing in this passage, and perhaps what you sense God is inviting you to more fully embrace.