This is from today’s Gospel. I recognize myself here.
Worldly anxiety and the lure of riches… I struggle with the obstructing power of these “thorns.” The lure of riches, indeed. Not so much material riches (though I wouldn’t refuse them if they came my way), but the “riches” of scholarly knowledge and reputation and influence? Those thorns still threaten to choke me.
Worldly anxiety? These are anxious times, and they call for a deepening of faith and trust. It’s easy to make exhortations about this, but the things of this life (even the good things) stir up a deeper possessiveness in us than we realize.
I am still too attached to “this world.” Lord, have mercy on me. Increase my faith. Jesus, draw forth from within my heart a greater trust in you, a greater love for you.