Trust in Divine Providence is not fatalism, says Pope

(February 28, 2011) Christians’ absolute trust in God’s Providence and seeking His will in the first place, ahead of the desire for material goods is not “fatalism”. Although it does not exempt one from the struggle for a dignified life”, it should lead to an existence based on “a simpler and more sober lifestyle, daily hard work and respect for creation, which God put into our care”. Pope Benedict XVI made the exhortation to a large crowd that had gathered in Saint Peter’s Square for his weekly midday “Angelus” prayer on Sunday. He reflected on Sunday’s Gospel reading about the heavenly Father, who takes care of the birds, the lilies and our needs too. The Pope noted that a remark like this, particularly to the poor, would appear unrealistic, if not vague. “In reality, the Lord wants us to understand clearly that we cannot serve two masters, God and wealth. Those who believe in God, a Father full of love for his children, must put the search for his Kingdom and his will in first place. This is the opposite of fatalism and naive irenism. Faith in providence does not exempt from the hard struggle for a dignified life. Instead, it frees us from the concern for things and fear of tomorrow.” He said Jesus showed what it means to live with one’s feet on the ground, attentive to our neighbours’ concrete situation, whilst at the same time holding our heart in Heaven, immersed in God’s mercy.