During an Anointing of the Sick, I had the opportunity to speak to a doctor about sickness. The topic dwelled on what he calls the “Silent Killer.” This is none other than STRESS. It not only affects the heart, it affects the mind, the immune system, the digestive system, the sleep, etc.

What causes stress: from money to people that we do not like; from traffic to reading the newspaper; from work and bosses to family problems.

Hence, how comforting are the words of Christ in the Gospel, “Come to me all you who labor and I will give you rest.”

How can God give us rest from all this stress?

1. “The Will of My Father.” Christ reminds us that God has a plan for each and every one of us. Like Christ, we are challenged to “Carry our crosses.” Crosses can be painful, inconvenient, and, yes, may lead us to death. Yet knowing that God can be trusted in this cross, gives such great comfort.
2. “All things come to pass.” While it is true that we live in a world with so many concerns, we should be reminded that all these things will come to pass. Why put so much emotions on things we cannot bring to the next life?
3. Prayer. God promised, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

In closing, let me share with you the secret of St. Philip Neri, known as the happy saint.

Live this day as if it were your first, you will always be grateful. Live this day as if it were your last, you will know what is important in life.