By Pastor David Constien
High Anxiety” is a 1977 satirical film and tribute to Alfred Hitchcock, produced, directed, and lead role by Mel Brooks (his first) in which “a psychiatrist with intense acrophobia (fear of heights) goes to work for a mental institution run by doctors who appear to be crazier than their patients, and have secrets that they were willing to commit murder to keep.” You may have seen it way back when. The title came to mind as I contemplate the times in which we live. There certainly are plenty of things to lead us into high anxiety these days, from the election to the conditions of this world to the conditions of our own bodies and lives.
This fact is apparently not really anything new for life in this sin corrupted world. For the Scriptures contain hundreds of passages in Old Testament and New Testament relating to human anxiety. They contain guidance, warnings, encouragement, and hope for us as we manage the anxiety of life. For we certainly must pay careful attention to our own spirit and what we take in through our eyes and ears. At times we must regulate the flow lest we become too discouraged and be led into despair. The news and conversations in our midst can have an impact on how we feel about and view our lives and future. The Word of God, faith, and worship are most important tools of the Spirit of God for our spirit and will help us when they dominate our attention more than the news blaring around us.
Psalm 94 is a community lament. The Psalmist, in Psalm 94:19, is beset by anxiety over many troubles and assaults of the enemy, but finds comfort and strength in the Lord and His Word. Regulating the anxiety in his affliction, he writes, “When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul.” He testifies that his Lord “gives rest from days of trouble,” that “the Lord will not forsake his people” nor abandon his heritage. He realizes that the Lord has been there to help him and His steadfast love held him up. He finally says, “the Lord has become my stronghold, and my God the rock of my refuge.” Just what we need to dwell on and turn to in order to manage the anxieties we sometimes allow dominance in our hearts!
Anxious? Jesus says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest!” (Mt. 11:28). This month, rest your anxieties on the Lord Jesus and give thanks with a clear an unencumbered heart! And may the peace that surpasses all human understanding, guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus! (Philippians 4:7).
Rev. David Constien, Pastor of Mesquite Lutheran Church and Childcare Center, proclaims the Word of God in its truth and purity on Sundays at 10:00 a.m. and in Bible studies on Sundays at 8:30 a.m. and at various dates and times. Thanksgiving service, Wed. Nov. 23 4:00 p.m.
Visit: mesquitelutheran.org or Facebook: @mesquiteLCC and (702) 346-5811 for more information. More information is available at mesquitelutheran.org or (702) 346-3954.
