Tom Wood Luke 12:29-30
"And do not keep striving for what you will eat and what you will drink, and do not keep worrying. For it is the nations of the world that strive after these things, and your Father knows you need them."
Carol and I saw the movie adaptation of Les Miz at Christmas time, one of my favorite books and now a favorite movie. Jean Valjean has been a prisoner in the galleys of nineteenth century France for nineteen years, five for stealing bread to feed his starving family and the rest for seeking to escape. Released at last he strives to begin a new life but his convict papers get him rejected everywhere.
Finally he is given shelter by a welcoming priest and in desperation steals the church's silver plate. Caught, returned to the monsignor, he expects the worst. But the Father tells the gendarmes that he gave Valjean the plate and adds to it the silver candelabras, asking only that Valjean use it to become and honest man. That moment is the turning point in a life that goes from misery to triumph.
In this story as in our lives we see the richness of God's gifts to us as well as God's call to use those gifts. God provides unfailingly what we need to take care of our selves, our families and our neighbors, especially those in need. We are called to work, not worry; called to use time and talent and goods to build God's kingdom.
God is in charge; we need not fear or worry, only seek to do our part.
Prayer: God, help us to use your rich gifts as best we can and never worry as we serve you. Amen.
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