“I HAVE LEARNED THE secret of being well fed and of going hungry, of living in abundance and of being in need. I can do all things in him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:12-13).
It’s not every Sunday that every single Scripture reading goes together as well as they do today.
“Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side” (Psalm 23:4).
If you’re in a place in your life where you’re questioning God’s love for you, His plan for you or your ability to cope with the stresses of your situation. Or if you’re trying to work up the courage to follow His will, then today’s readings are a blunt reminder to “be not afraid!”
As a homeschooling mom of five, I’m at my wit’s end most days just trying to maintain my already lowered standards. The harder I try to hold on and control the household, the faster I seem to lose my grip. The house is a disaster. My patience snaps and I become a worse version of myself. Even if the day started with such promise!
Letting go of that ideal day feels like a major blow to my self-image and self-esteem. It’s yet another reminder that I was never called to do it all on my own strength. God gives me these challenges as an invitation to lean on Him. Maybe you can relate to my struggle to wake up every morning and face the housework. Or maybe you’re facing a difficult decision between what’s easy and what’s right. An invitation to lean on God’s mercy, love and providence.
“The LORD of hosts will provide for all peoples a feast of rich food and choice wines” (Isaiah 25:6). He doesn’t just promise that He’ll help you squeak through in the end. He promises to console you like a father, to provide for you lavishly, generously, excessively. Today’s Scripture readings speak of the mercy of an infinitely loving father who is just waiting for you to accept His loving support. If you say “yes” to His will, He will not just get you through the difficulties, He will lift you up and show you the incredible graces that are only available after you’ve been through the darkness.
But what if it’s just too hard?
“Some ignored the invitation and went away… The king was enraged and sent his troops, destroyed those murderers, and burned their city. Then he said to his servants, ‘The feast is ready but those who were invited were not worthy to come. Go out, therefore, into the main road and invite to the feast whomever you find’” (Matthew 22:5,7-9).
It’s easy to think this path of radical trust in God’s will is a nice option for those brave enough to embrace it. I’m starting to realize that’s not the case. His invitations are patient, merciful and never ceasing. But they’re not optional. We can’t become saints by our own efforts. Reliance on God is non-negotiable. So, I think we’re called to be at least a little bit uncomfortable most of the time. It’s not the message of peace we’d like to hear, but that message is in the Scriptures:
“On this mountain he will destroy the veil that veils all peoples, the web that is woven over all nations; he will destroy death forever. The Lord GOD will wipe away the tears from every face” (Isaiah 25:7-8).
God is waiting to console you deeply. What is He asking you to surrender to Him today?