26 July 2022

You shall say to them this word:
Let my eyes run down with tears night and day,
and let them not cease,
for the virgin daughter—my people—is struck down with a crushing blow,
with a very grievous wound.
If I go out into the field,
look—those killed by the sword!
And if I enter the city,
look—those sick with famine!

From Jeremiah 14:17-22, NRSV

Today we hear one of the several prophecies of Jeremiah about the disaster coming to Judah and Jerusalem. His anguish at the plight of his people is clear –  he is inconsolable at the visions of slaughter and famine that will befall the people. Jeremiah had reached the point of wondering if God had indeed abandoned his people and that there was no way back. So he did the only thing he could do and confessed the people’s sins before God. Even though they were not ready to do this themselves, Jeremiah held on to the hope that by confessing on their behalf, disaster could be averted.

• • What do you think Jeremiah hoped to achieve for the people?
  • What difference can it make if we lament the sins of others?

Pray for those who seek to lead others to God – and especially for those whose guidance is rejected or ignored.