Let Go

You condemned the rich, Lord Jesus, because they have already received their reward, and you proclaimed the poor blessed because the kingdom of heaven is theirs. Teach us to seek for imperishable goods and to have confidence in your blood, poured out as the price of our redemption.

These days it's a bit hard to not seek riches. Things cost a great deal of money in this age, even if one just wants to get by. It is because of this fact that one can lose sight of what is really the more satisfying rewards.
Several months ago, my wife and I had to deal with the stark reality that the economy was taking its toll on us. I had a part time job in addition to teaching that I lost, due mostly to financial restructuring. This prompted a great deal of upheaval in our lives. We had to sell our house, simply because we could not meet the mortgage without the other income. My mom, who had moved in with us, was forced to go to a senior living facility. Mary and I moved to an apartment. This resulted in my switching dioceses and assignments as deacon. It was a bit unnerving to say the least. I had no idea if the move would even help. I was unsure if we could afford the new home, since my masters student loan was kicking in and had to be paid.  But we put our trust in God. We just trusted that everything would work out.
  Well, it has been almost nine months we are here. Things were a bit rocky as money became tight, but God provided. We have a lovely apartment. The new parish has accepted me with open arms. And, to top it off, a new part time position was offered and acquired that will give our budget a little breathing room.
    I can't help but feel that if we did not trust in Gods plan, and just concentrated on this life, things would have been more difficult. And the added bonus? I feel closer to my wife than I have in years, because we have more time to spend together. And there is one of those intangible rewards.
  So place your worries at the foot of the cross, whether they are emotional, monetary, or physical. As the saying goes, let go and let God.