Anxiety about the Clothes

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Eleventh Week :  Saturday*

*Gospel : Mt 6:24-34*

*First Reading : 2 Cor 12:1-10*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 34:8-9, 10-11, 12-13*

*Anxiety about the Clothes*

The question “Why are you anxious about clothes?” is drawn from Matthew 6:28, part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount

*1) God as a Provider*

Jesus points to nature—the lilies and the birds—as evidence that God provides for His creation without them worrying.

In today’s consumer-driven world, clothing is often tied to identity, status, or beauty.

People feel pressure to wear the right brands or keep up with trends. 

This can cause unnecessary anxiety, especially for youth, who are bombarded with messages that their worth is based on appearance.

Trust that your value comes from God, not from outward appearance. Simplicity can be a form of faith.

*2) Consumerism and Materialism*

Today, we live in a world driven by fashion trends, brand names, and consumer culture. 

People often worry about having the *“right”* clothes for social acceptance or to project a certain image.

In this contexr we need to Cultivate contentment instead of chasing trends.

*3) Anxiety and Social Pressure*

Social media and advertising make us feel that we are not good enough unless we look a certain way or wear certain clothes. 

This creates insecurity and stress, especially among teenagers and young adults.

We need to Remind ourselves that God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).

We need to realise that identity and beauty come from within and not from what we wear 

Focus more on inner character than outward appearance.

*4) Economic Inequality*

Many people worry about having basic clothing because they cannot afford it. 

Meanwhile, others accumulate excess. 

This verse speaks to both groups—offering comfort to the poor and a challenge to the rich.

Trust that God knows your needs and will provide (Matthew 6:32).

Share your abundance: “I was naked and you clothed me” (Matthew 25:36).

Support those who are in need through acts of charity and justice.

*5) Spiritual Priorities*

Jesus is teaching us to reorder our priorities. 

We often spend more time planning outfits than preparing our hearts.

Start your day not with “What will I wear?” but with “Lord, how can I serve You today?”

Seek first the Kingdom of God, and your needs—including clothing—will be provided (Matthew 6:33).

Live simply so that God’s peace can dwell richly in your life.

*6) Trust Over Worry*

“Why are you anxious about clothes?” is not just about fabric and fashion—it’s a question about faith, values, and identity. 

In a world full of image-driven anxiety, Jesus invites us to rest in God's provision, live simply, and find our true identity in Him.

“Consider the lilies…” — a call to live beautifully, trustfully, and free from unnecessary worry.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*