Slightly misleading meme

I saw the picture above on Facebook, with the meme, “That moment when you try to explain to Jesus how hard your life has been lately.” I laughed about it and re-posted it and thought little more about it until today. Then today I found myself thinking about the meme and realizing that there is a half-truth contained in it. And, as with most half-truths, depending on what you are seeing in the meme, you could either end up thinking the wrong thing or the right thing.

If you have been whingeing (as the Brits love to say), then there is some significant truth to this meme. Thinking of what Jesus and the saints have gone through is a good way to put your life in a better perspective. Reading about the suffering in the world will put your life in a better perspective. Walking down the hallways of some hospitals, hospices, or assisted living situations will put your life in a better perspective. If what you need is an attitude adjustment, then this meme is for you.

But, then there is the half-life behind this meme. If you truly need to talk to Jesus, then this meme is not for you and is wrong. The picture and the meme can lead you to believe that you should not be troubling Jesus with your petty concerns. But, both Scripture and Tradition tells us different. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;  and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus,” says Saint Paul in Philippians. It does not say in some things, rather it says “in everything … let your requests be made known to God.” If this meme keeps you from talking to God, then it is not merely a half-truth, but a full lie.

As with most internet memes, it is short and pithy and can communicate a good point. But, like most internet memes, it can be too short and lead you to mistaken thinking. So, be careful about what you read and post.