We can all relate to Jeremiah, one of the great prophets of the Old Testament, because he never had it easy; his faith was constantly tested.
When God first chose him, for example, Jeremiah was young and idealistic.
Later reflecting upon that moment of his calling, he said, “When I read your words, I devoured them, O Lord! They became my joy and the happiness of my heart!”
Jeremiah was ready to save the world.
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But some years into his ministry, this same Jeremiah complained, “You duped me, O LORD!” You’ve made me a fool.
Enter our first reading (Jeremiah 18:18-20 www.usccb.org).
The Jews, even friends of Jeremiah, are plotting to kill him, because they don’t like the message he has for them: Repent. Return to the Lord.
Rather than mend their ways, they seek to kill him.
And yet Jeremiah cannot hold back. The Word of God is like a fire in his bones; he must preach it.
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Anyone who journeys with God will feel the highs and lows of faith like Jeremiah.
You may feel close to God on your wedding day, after giving birth to a child, or even after having a small prayer answered.
We may feel far from God after losing a loved one, enduring a lukewarm marriage, or even a stressful day at work.
Wherever we are in our journeys with the Lord, let’s pray today for a faith like Jeremiah, a faith that remains strong like a fire in our bones, even when it’s tested.