Welcome to Dear Father Thomas, a weekly column where readers share their questions about faith, family, relationships, and life’s challenges. Each week, Father Thomas offers practical wisdom and spiritual guidance rooted in Scripture and the teachings of the Catholic Church.
DEAR FATHER THOMAS:I feel exhausted. Not physically exhausted, although I am often tired. I mean emotionally and spiritually exhausted. Between work, family responsibilities, caring for others, and trying to keep up with daily life, I feel like I have nothing left to give. I still go to Mass. I still pray. But lately, I feel numb. The joy I used to have seems gone. Even simple tasks feel overwhelming.
Some days I wonder if I am failing God because I don’t feel strong enough, faithful enough, or grateful enough. I know God loves me, but right now I feel worn out and discouraged. How can I keep going when I feel like I’m running on empty? — RUNNING ON EMPTY
DEAR RUNNING ON EMPTY: First, listen very carefully when I tell you this: Being exhausted does not mean you are failing God. Many faithful Christians carry heavy burdens. They care for their families, work hard, serve others, and try to remain faithful through it all. Eventually, even the strongest among us can become weary.
We often imagine that faithful Catholics should always feel joyful and spiritually strong. But that is not what we see in Scripture, and it is not what we see in the lives of the saints. Even great saints experienced discouragement, weariness, and spiritual darkness. They learned to lean on God’s strength when their own strength was gone.
One of the dangers of burnout is believing that everything depends on us. We carry every responsibility and every problem until we become overwhelmed. But God never asked you to carry the whole world. He only asks you to be faithful today. Sometimes the holiest thing you can do is not work harder. Sometimes the holiest thing you can do is rest. Jesus Himself stepped away from the crowds to pray. He rested. He spent time with His Father. If the Son of God made time for rest, you should not feel guilty for needing it as well.
And if your exhaustion has become something deeper—if you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or persistent hopelessness—please do not suffer alone. Talk to your priest. Speak with someone you trust. God often brings healing through the people He places in our lives. Most importantly, remember this: God’s love for you is not measured by your productivity. He does not love you more on your best days or less on your hardest days. He loves you because you are His.
Tonight, before you go to bed, pray these simple words: “Lord, I am tired. Give me the strength I need for tomorrow and the peace to rest in Your love tonight.” Then leave tomorrow in His hands. God bless you.
Have a question for Father Thomas? Email us at dearfather@ycvf.org. While we can’t respond to every message personally, your letter could be selected for a future episode.
