Breaking the Word

2^nd week in Lent, Thursday – 9^th March 2023 – Jeremiah 17,5-10; Lk 16,19-31

Placing Right Trust

In the first reading, Jeremiah makes a strong contrast between two kinds of people: the one who thinks he is self-sufficient, is immersed in the materials of this world and ignores the place of God in his life. He feels he “has done it” and the second one who puts all his trust in God and in the way of life that God suggests.  Jeremiah points out, if our trust is only in other humans or pleasures, but not in the Lord, we will end up producing nothing worthwhile. If our trust is in God, we will produce abundantly even during dry and trying times. The first man’s life is basically dry and empty. He has no eye for what is really good. Surrounded by his luxuries and pleasures, he unwittingly lives in a desert. He measures his life by what he has – not by what he himself is, and even less by what he is in his relationship with others. The second man is, like a tree by the waterside that thrusts its roots to the stream; when the heat comes it feels no alarm, its foliage stays green; it has no worries in a year of drought, and never ceases to bear fruit. Such a person may lead a life of great material simplicity but is in touch with a deeper source of wealth, God’s truth, wisdom and love. In whom do you trust?

2^nd week in Lent, Wednesday – 08^th March 2023 — Gospel: Mt 20,17-28

Being God’s Servant in Persecutions

Being a prophet of God or doing God’s will isn’t that easy, but often ends up in earthly suffering. In the first reading, Jeremiah realizes that being God’s prophet has caused him and continues to cause him to be persecuted. He had never asked to be a prophet. He had not only spoken to the people for God, but also had talked to God on behalf of the people. Now the people are plotting against Jeremiah to destroy him. People find his teachings uncomfortable. He is seen as a trouble-maker. In the eyes of his critics, getting rid of Jeremiah will make their own lives easier. Without him around to pronounce harsh truths, the works of the priests, sages and other prophets can go on just as before. Their words are so plain and harmless, and lull people into complacency as they have always done. But Jeremiah is puzzled, “should evil be returned for good?” It is a question that is often asked. “How could God allow this to happen to such a good person?” Jeremiah requests God to help him during his time of persecution. The world is not ready to hear words of truth and justice. It does not like the true prophet. Yet, our calling means that not only will we continue to announce the message for and from God, but also, will do it as servants till the end.