NINTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST—PROPER 14

August 7, 2022

AS WE GATHER
How easy it is to become anxious when things go differently than we had hoped. We worry about ourselves and our loved ones. We experience everyday anxieties and big cosmic ones too. Sometimes anxiety can become so serious that professional help is needed. Paul writes in Philippians 4:6, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Easier said than done, Paul! Jesus invites us to let anxiety be. Concerning the things most of us worry about—like food, clothing, provisions—Jesus observes that just as the birds, the lilies, and the grass are well-provided for, we will be taken care of as well. The adventure of life is one of faith: entrusting ourselves to the care of God, seeking first God’s reign, and experiencing the rich provision enjoyed by all of creation as a gift.

Bible Readings

FIRST READING: Genesis 15:1–6
(God’s promises to Abraham)

EPISTLE READING: Hebrews 11:1–16
(The people of God living by faith)

HOLY GOSPEL: Luke 12:22–34
(Let anxiety be.)