18 July 2021 16th Sunday on Ordinary Time
The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land.
Jeremiah 23:1-6, NRSV
Jeremiah was often required to prophesy doom and punishment for Israel. However, in today’s reading, he is allowed to offer some hope for them. Jeremiah tells them that although there will be punishment for those who have failed to shepherd the people and for those who have committed other misdeeds, there will also be a time of peace, protection and fruitfulness for those who have remained faithful. God, through Jeremiah, reassures the people that he will raise up shepherds – leaders – who will look after them. God will keep the promises made to Abraham for those who put their trust in him. Ultimately, this promise will be fulfilled through Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
- What difference do you think Jeremiah’s prophecy may have made to a people accustomed to oppression and injustice?
- Does God still raise up “shepherds” for his people?
Pray today for all leaders in our faith communities and for the graces they need to nurture those in their charge.
