Wednesday 29th July
Read Jeremiah 1:6-8
“‘Alas, Sovereign Lord,’ I said, ‘I do not know how to speak; I am too young.’
7 But the Lord said to me, ‘Do not say, “I am too young.” You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. 8 Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,’ declares the Lord.” (NIVUK)
God filled Jeremiah with words of warning, words of hope and words of judgment – and he was bound to speak them. As we work through Jeremiah we will read and reflect on those words, despite the ominous promise!
Jeremiah’s protest is two-fold. He lacks eloquence and lacks years. Two other famous prophets before him protested their call, seeking to squib it. Moses argued his lack of eloquence and his disgrace (Exodus 3). Isaiah argued his lack of moral authority – he was too wracked with guilt (Isaiah 6). In both cases their protests fell on deaf ears. God thrives amidst human weakness after all.
Tomorrow we will see how God responds to the perceived lack of eloquence. But he first deals with Jeremiah’s youth. He does not deny that the task is daunting. He will be terrified and he will be tormented (else why would God promise rescue?). Despite those fears, despite his youth, from the beginning Jeremiah is called to fear rightly. Or at least place one’s fear where it is warranted. This is reflected in his address – Sovereign Lord (v6).
It is also reflected in Jesus’ words to His fearful disciples also…
“‘So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 27 What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. 28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. 30 And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:26-30) (NIVUK)
