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Discover how to surrender anxiety through the wisdom of Matthew 6:24-34 and find peace in God's providential care for you and your family.

Today's Gospel: Matthew 6:24-34

Three times in today's Gospel, Jesus reminds us not to worry. Anxiety and worry are often rooted in our desire to control, but Jesus leads us down a different path: surrender.

Imagine Jesus taking you by the hand and, with a loving glance, speaking to you the reassurances of this Gospel. He proceeds to point out the beauty of nature and how his Father cares for all He has created. Jesus says,

“Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them.”

Advancing further in your walk, Jesus points out the wildflowers, saying,

“If God so clothes the grass of the field . . . will he not much more provide for you?”

God cares for us with a lavish abundance of love. God sees you and your family. He knows your joys and sorrows. You are not forgotten, your needs are known, and the life of each member of your family is held in divine providence.

Today’s Gospel truth is both simple and profound: “Seek first the Kingdom of God.” This is not an abstract command but a practical invitation, an invitation to orient our hearts toward God amid daily life. Long hours of prayer and silence are rare luxuries. Family responsibilities press in, but the Kingdom is sought and gained one small, intentional act at a time with a glance toward heaven and a whispered thank You. The psalmist sings “Cast your care upon the Lord, who will give you support.” (Psalm 55:23)These moments, though brief, are powerful. Our soul is quiet and is open to grace. Let these small acts draw God near because, in truth, He is already with you.

 

Ponder:

What do you hold onto or worry about that Jesus is asking you to surrender into His providential care?

 

Pray:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for your many blessings and continued care for our family. Open our eyes to Your presence and help us to live in the moment You have given us, surrendering what makes us anxious.

 

Pray Together:

Pick one day to take a field trip and explore the beauty of creation and remind each other that as beautiful as creation is, nothing is more beautiful than your soul in union with God. 

 


June 20

Copyright 2026 Dr. Lisa M. Gulino

 

About the Author

Dr. Lisa M. Gulino

Dr. Lisa M. Gulino

Dr. Gulino is a lay ecclesial minister with over 30 years' experience in pastoral ministry and teaching in higher education. She has served in Diocesan Ministries for a total of 22 years—Diocese of Fall River and Diocese of Providence. Additionally, she has several years in Parish Ministry. Lisa received her Doctorate in Ministry from the Catholic University of America in Spiritual Formation with emphasis in evangelization and catechesis. She wrote her dissertation on the spiritual and faith formation of the domestic church. Since 2007 Lisa has served as an adjunct professor at St. Joseph College for both theology and pastoral ministry courses. Her work with the Congregation of Holy Cross began in 2018 as a facilitator and advisor with the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame's STEP Program. And she also serves as a faculty member for the Permanent Diaconate program for the Diocese of Fall River. Lisa grew up in Attleboro, Massachusetts in the shadow of our Lady’s Mantle as she lived close to Lasalette Shrine and visited often with her family. She is the fifth of six children. She is the proud aunt of 11 nieces and nephews and 14 great nieces and nephews.