Nov 8 Fri
Should I live in the past, or worry about the future?
He who keeps on observing the wind will not sow, and he who looks the clouds will not reap, says Sacred Scripture. It is an invitation to fulfill the duty of each moment, today and now, not being put off by plans and hopes for the future. It is easy to fool ourselves waiting for more favorable circumstances.
St. Josemaría wrote: “Tomorrow!: sometimes it may be prudence; very often it is the adverb of the defeated." What would have become of the twelve Apostles' work if they had waited for favorable circumstances to begin preaching? Death would have found them still waiting and empty-handed.
“For us, Christians, the shortness of our journey through life should instead be a spur to help us make better use of our time." The brief span of our time on earth should focus our attention on the task at hand. Thus, we will live with our feet squarely on the ground, while never forgetting that our goal transcends our earthly life.
One common temptation that many face is living either in the past or in the future, and failing to live in the present moment. You live in the past when you remain controlled by past events, sins, and sufferings. The past must be healed, and your sins of the past must be forgiven. Once that is done, you must let go of the past and not allow it to affect you negatively.
The past can affect you for good when 1) you learn from the mistakes you have made, 2) you are strengthened by the healing of past hurts, 3) you continue to rejoice in all that God has done for you.
You are affected negatively by the past when you dwell on your past sins and offenses, failing to seek forgiveness and healing.
You must be concerned, not worried, about the future. You live in the future when your mind is constantly obsessed with that which is out of your control. It’s easy to fear the future or to be anxious about it, but you must remember that the future is not yet here, and you must not fear or worries cause undue stress.
All we have is the present moment. Therefore, live each moment, today, now. Be present to the present moment. Embrace it, live it, and encounter the love and Mercy of God as He is with you here and now.
Do you struggle to let go of the past or try to control the future? Seek to embrace this present moment and all will be well. Reflect upon this tendency and especially look at what God wants of you today. Keep your focus on this present moment and seek to meet our Lord in it. He awaits you here and now.
We turn to our Lady; at her side, we contemplate the true value of the present moment and eternity, many times a day. Let us ask her again: Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
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