I hear the whisperings of many: “Terror on every side! Denounce!
Let us denounce him!”
All those who were my friends are on the watch for any misstep of mine.
“Perhaps he will be trapped; then we can prevail, and take our vengeance on him.”
But the Lord is with me, like a mighty champion my persecutors will stumble, they will not triumph. In their failure they will be put to utter shame, to lasting, unforgettable confusion.
(Jeremiah 20:10-11)
Ultimate justice belongs to God. God tests the just and probes the mind and heart. Trials and tribulations can be a test of our faith and integrity. It is during these difficult times of adversity that we need to trust the Lord and rely on Him to deliver us. Let us praise the Lord in all circumstances maintaining a heart of gratitude even in the most difficult times.
In the court of life, where battles are fought,
Ultimate justice belongs to God, we're taught.
He tests the just, probes the mind and heart,
In trials and tribulations, our faith He'll chart.
When storms of life make us bend and sway,
It's a test of our faith, a price to pay.
Integrity stands firm, like a towering mast,
In the face of adversity, holding fast.
In difficult times, when shadows creep,
Trust in the Lord, His promises He'll keep.
Rely on Him, for He is our guide,
In His deliverance, we take pride.
Through every circumstance, let praises ring,
To the Lord Almighty, our offerings we bring.
Maintain a heart of gratitude, let it shine,
Even in the most difficult times, divine.
Dear Heavenly Father,
We acknowledge that ultimate justice belongs to You. You test the just and probe our minds and hearts. We understand that our trials and tribulations can be a test of our faith and integrity.
In these difficult times of adversity, we put our trust in You, Lord. We rely on You to deliver us from our troubles. We know that Your love for us is unfailing and Your power is infinite.
Help us to maintain a heart of gratitude even in the most difficult times. Let us praise You in all circumstances, for You are our refuge and strength.
In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.
Pericope:
II: Oracles mostly in the days of Jehoiakim
JEREMIAH'S INTERIOR CRISIS
Jeremiah 20:10-13
First Reading | Jeremiah 20:10-13
10 I hear the whisperings of many: “Terror on every side! Denounce! Let us denounce him!” All those who were my friends are on the watch for any misstep of mine. “Perhaps he will be trapped; then we can prevail and take our vengeance on him.” 11 But the Lord is with me, like a mighty champion my persecutors will stumble, they will not triumph. In their failure they will be put to utter shame, to lasting, unforgettable confusion. 12 O Lord of hosts, you who test the just, who probe mind and heart, let me witness the vengeance you take on them, for to you I have entrusted my cause. 13 Sing to the Lord, praise the Lord, For he has rescued the life of the poor from the power of the wicked!
Learning Lessons:
Trust in God During Difficult Times: Jeremiah was surrounded by enemies and felt alone, yet he trusted in the Lord to be his protector. This teaches us to rely on God, especially in times of adversity.
God’s Justice: Jeremiah prays for justice and believes that God will bring his persecutors to shame. This reminds us that ultimate justice belongs to God.
God Tests the Righteous: The passage mentions that God tests the just and probes the mind and heart. This suggests that trials and tribulations can be a test of our faith and integrity.
Praise in All Circumstances: Despite his circumstances, Jeremiah ends with a note of praise to God for His deliverance. This teaches us the importance of maintaining a heart of gratitude and praise, even in difficult times.
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot