Father Anthony reflects on these passages from Matthew as our guide to not get caught up in the anxiety of day-to-day life, but to rely on the providence of God’s mercy.

Father Anthony reflects on the urgency and tenderness of John 7:37–39, set on the final and greatest day of the feast, when Jesus suddenly cries out above the noise of ritual and crowds: “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.” It is a startling invitation—not to effort, observance, or mastery, but to thirst itself—as if longing were the doorway God has been waiting to open.

Father Anthony reminds us that God has to restore order and justice, but He is a merciful God who does not remain angry.