Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled

We hear so often that we should live in the present moment, but the realities of life often require us to turn toward the future, and in doing so, we begin to worry. This is especially the case when we approach times of transition; when we have to think about a new job, a new place to live, perhaps even a total transformation of our way of life, the anxieties and fears begin to creep in. 

This has certainly been the case for me many times over the past few years. Graduating from college, applying to grad school, graduating from grad school, applying to join DC Service Corps, and now nearing the end of my year of service with FMS. Each of these events brought with it a host of insecurities and a mountain of uncertainty. Where would I go next? How would I live? What will the community look like? Will I be happy?

I’ve learned a lot over the past year to help me manage these anxieties. I’ve learned from the example of my friend and housemate Susan, who set an example of patience and surrender to God’s will that inspires me to trust God’s plan for me. I’ve learned from Sts. Clare and Francis, whose preaching of poverty and simplicity inspires me to give up trying to possess the future. Finally, I’ve learned from the FMS staff, whose professional and spiritual advice inspires me to take the steps I can to prepare for what comes next and leave the rest to the Holy Spirit. 

Over the past few months, I’ve come to trust Jesus when he says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled” (John 14:1). It’s not magically easier, of course, but when I think about how overwhelmed I felt at other times of transition in my life, I can see the difference. Placing my heart within the Sacred Heart of Jesus, I can let it be calm. I can embrace the present, thanking God for the gifts all around me and rejoicing in creation, as St. Francis teaches.

Question for Reflection: Who do you learn from and lean into for support during seasons of transition?