Pastoral leaders are future-oriented. That goes without question. "If the children's program keeps growing, what's our next move?" "If stewardship tanks, what will we do?" "If city council approves the plan to revitalize downtown, how does that impact our long-term strategy?" Asking these questions is a part of my role. I'm doing what a leader is supposed to do. I rarely – if ever – question that.

But then the lectionary drops this on me: "Do not worry about tomorrow," says Christ, "for tomorrow will bring worries of its own" (Matthew 6:34). As a leader – as one expected "to worry about tomorrow" – what am I to do with this?

I've always treated this passage as mere homespun advice, something suitable for Poor Richard's Almanac. But lately I've wondered if the stakes are higher. "Do not worry about tomorrow." What if this isn't just helpful advice but a dire warning, especially for those who are called to lead in the way of Jesus Christ?

This question occurred to me after reading the highly ...