“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. Matthew 6:28-29 NIV
My mother told me about the mean squirrels in her yard. Her peach trees had produced many small beautiful green peaches for the upcoming summer season. The squirrels came down and ate all of the green fruit. That’s very frustrating. My next thought in my head. “Maybe the squirrels were hoarding early instead of waiting until they were ripe, because they were watching all of the people loading up at the grocery store amid the COVID19 crisis, and they wanted to act like the people.” My second thought, “Hey, stay away from my mom’s trees, I eat some of that fruit.”
Jesus’ teachings have the ability to address the core concerns of the heart for every person in every culture across all span of time. Take a moment to read the entirety of Matthew chapter 6. The passage regarding worry follows teachings about storing up treasures and serving God or money. The teaching of worry is connected with a “therefore” which relates back to the subject of money and serving God. Money, God and worry over food, clothing and housing are very connected.
Take a Breather
Jesus invites us in the middle of our worry and concern to take a breather and look at nature. God takes care of the birds. So, go and watch the birds. Take some time to listen to their singing. They are busy, but not stressed. We are more valuable than the birds.
“Consider the lilies of the field”.
The word “consider” in the greek text is only used once in the Bible, it’s in this verse. It is a compound word “Katamanthano”. “Kata” means to find the end point such as moving from a higher general overview and moving to a specific point of understanding. “Mathano” means to learn with a special emphasis on reflecting and ascertaining knowledge through the key facts of understanding gained through experience. The words together, would encourage us to learn to the point of coming to a conclusion.
Look at God’s Creation
Jesus invites us to look at God’s creation and gain understanding of the ways that God has provided daily for our needs. With the temperature rising, I invite you to take an early morning walk or late evening stroll. Notice the variety of birds, have you seen the new nest? Which trees are in full bloom? It’s spring, which plants are displaying their colorful flowers? Even after drought and fire, these plants find a way to return. Winter gives way to spring.
The Blessing of a New Perspective of how much God cares about you
May you be blessed with learning a new perspective about God’s care and protection from observing His creation. YOU are part of God’s world and His creation that He watches over. May you gain the experiential understanding of the key facts that you matter so much to God. Just like He takes care of the rest of His creation, He will take care of you. Reflect on the lyrics or even listen to this song, This is My Father’s World.
This is my Father’s world, and to my listening ears
All nature sings, and round me rings the music of the spheres.
This is my Father’s world, the birds their carols raise,
The morning light, the lily white, declare their Maker’s praise
Blessings Love y’all