As I write this, it is the Monday after the weekend readings about prayer. The message that resonated with me from those readings was the ‘dailiness’ of prayer, reflecting an ongoing dependence on God. Jesus encourages us to pray persistently and authentically, continually bringing the cry of our hearts before God. Reflecting on Paul’s advice to the Philippians, I realise that when I feel anxious, perhaps it’s a sign that I am not in every situation letting my ‘requests be known to God.’ (Phil 4:6-7)

Today’s Gospel offers an extended teaching on anxiety from Jesus. It completely reframes how we see the world, shifting our focus from control and possessions, to trust in God, and embracing life and the world as gifts, accepted in gratitude. This does not mean that life becomes easy, but it becomes infused with insight and freedom as we reorient our lives towards God’s kingdom.

Mary MacKillop exemplifies this with a life clothed in ‘compassion, kindness, humility, meekness and patience.’ (Col 3:12). Her ‘Rule of Life’ emphasised poverty, a dependence on divine providence, no ownership of personal belongings, faith that God would provide what was necessary, and a willingness to go wherever there was a need. ‘Cling to God’s love and grace’ (Mary MacKillop 1890) and ‘See the protecting hand of God in all that is happening.’ (Mary MacKillop 1885)

While such a life of wild abandonment and trust may seem too heroic, it starts simply by laying requests and anxieties before God and embracing Jesus’ words: “So do not worry about tomorrow.” That is a step I can try to take.

By Paul Asnicar