Spiritual Reflection

Gospel Reflection: Matthew 6:25–34
“Do not worry about your life...”

In today’s Gospel, Jesus offers a tender and timely reminder: “Do not worry about your life—what you are to eat, drink, or wear.” He invites us into a life of trust—one free from anxiety and rich in faith.

This passage is especially fitting for the Feast of St Mary of the Cross, MacKillop. Her life reflected the very essence of Jesus’ teaching. Despite the many challenges she faced—conflict with Church authorities, poverty, and uncertainty—Mary remained grounded in deep trust in God’s providence. Her famous words echo the Gospel beautifully:

“Do all you can with the means at your disposal and calmly leave the rest to God.” (1891)

Mary MacKillop was not only the first Australian saint; she was also a courageous woman who responded with hope and action to the needs of her time. Her vision for education, especially for children in rural and poor communities, helped shape the foundation of Catholic education in Australia. Her life was marked by resilience, discernment, and a quiet refusal to be distracted by ego or status.

In this Gospel, when Jesus says “do not worry,” the word can also be translated as “do not be distracted.” He warns against being consumed by the pursuit of wealth, status, or appearances—things that often draw us away from what truly matters.

In a world that prizes productivity, image, and material success, Jesus calls us to something deeper:

• To stay grounded
• To choose simplicity
• To live in a way that trusts in God’s love
• To seek first the kingdom of God

Let us follow the example of Mary MacKillop:
“Do what you can—and trust God with the rest.”

What distractions keep me from trusting God and being fully present to the needs of those around me?