Do Not Be Anxious - Dealing with Anxiety & Anxiety Disorders
Today’s reading led us into a discussion about anxiety in general, as well as anxiety disorders. Fr Aaron shared with us his own story of dealing with an anxiety disorder and what conclusions he has drawn from his own experience. Fr Aaron advocated for viewing anxiety disorders—and mental health issues more broadly—more holistically, recognizing that the body, as well as the soul, must be treated. He provided a poignant analogy to help us better understand that point. We then discussed anxiety in more general terms, and how it often stems from us desiring to control the world around us. We concluded with some practical thoughts about how best to learn to start giving up this desire for control.
Give Expecting No Return & Love Your Enemies
Today we discussed some practical implications of Jesus’ teaching to give and lend without expecting anything in return. We began by discussing the meaning of financial stewardship, balancing between ensuring accountability and not trying to control or micromanage in an unhealthy manner. We concluded by contemplating Jesus’ command to love our enemies and how we have the ability to do so because we are made in God’s image. To that end, Jesus taught we should behave as God behaves towards us—providing us with His love and mercy so that we would share it with others.