One Day at a Time

Dear St. John’s,

Like many of you, the last few months I’ve been bombarded with ads about the Virginia redistricting vote. I’m glad that’s it’s finally over.

I have spoken with several parishioners, and a common sentiment I’ve noticed, is that nobody was particularly thrilled about the options. Gerrymandering is a tactic that in many ways undermines our democratic system. Yet, since the president has encouraged the practice in ways that favor him, isn’t fighting “fire with fire” a necessary tactic for his opposition?

I don’t pretend to know the answer to this question. Lately, I’ve had more questions than answers about life in general.

Last Sunday, we bid farewell to St. John’s faithful rector, Amelie Wilmer. In her sermon she shared how Jesus can reframe the stories of our lives and how these stories are constantly unfolding. This is not only the case for St. John’s Church, but also for our country.

As we wait to see how this week’s results will eventually impact the mid-terms; or how the choices we’ve made (in our personal lives) will impact us in the future, it’s easy to exist in a state of anxiety. At least, I know that has been the case for me.

It’s during those times I am reminded of the insight from the children’s fable, “The Tortoise and the Hare.” And the wisdom of the 12-step slogan, “One day at a time.” As well as the words of Christ who encouraged his followers, “…do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matt. 6:34)

All of these are reminders for us how to navigate through the challenges and unanswered questions in life; not by sprinting pass the moment in anticipation, but as Amelie reminded us on Sunday, walking with the uncertainty and allowing Christ to guide us on along the way.

In Christ,

Anthony+