These days are difficult times. People have so much anxiety, worry, and fear. The economy is not doing well; there is so much chaos in the world; the Church too is chaotic; For those who are working, times are hard. Then there are concerns when it comes to the family. In a survey, people most worry about: work, money, being late, sickness and relationship problems. 

Speaking of anxiety, in the Gospel, Jesus told Martha that she was anxious about so many things. Mary has chosen the better part.

Three things we can do when we experience anxiety, fear and worry:

1. Be still and know that I am God. Prayer is very powerful. It is admitting that we have a God who is good, a God who cares, a God who will not abandon us. In fact, it is very helpful that we have a favorite bible verse (Do not be anxious about anything. But in all, give praise to God – Philippians) or quotation of a saint (Pray, hope and do not worry – Padre Pio).
2. Letting Go. Life is ever-changing. Nothing is permanent. One of the biggest difficulties in life is letting go: money, position, health, material possession, benefit. When we let go there is always the fear of the future: “What now?”
3. Balance Life. Everything has a time, everything has a season, everything has a purpose in heaven (Ecclesiastes).  

In the Mass, we remember the words of Padre Pio: “Pray, hope and do not worry. Worrying is useless. God will answer our prayers.” Let us cast our anxieties to the Lord for he cares.