We read in today’s first reading that Jeremiah received his calling to be a prophet from the Lord. Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I dedicated you, a prophet to the nations I appointed you. Jeremiah, as a prophet was a spokesman for God to the people and the civil and religious authorities of his day. God makes it very clear to Jeremiah that he is not alone. They will fight against you but not prevail over you, for I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord. Jeremiah, powered by God’s love was able to endure persecution.
Jesus, like Jeremiah would be rejected by the people. Today, we hear how the people of his home town rejected Him. The people expected a display of miracles. Jesus preached a message of God’s love and mercy: to bring glad tidings to the poor…to proclaim liberty to captives…recovery of sight to the blind…to let the oppressed go free…but instead of rejoicing over this great news, they were all filled with fury and tried to kill Jesus.
St. Paul in today’s second reading to the Corinthians describes the qualities of a selfless love. Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, it is not pompous, it is not inflated, it is not rude, it does not seek its own interests, it is not quick-tempered, it does not brood over injury, it does not rejoice over wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. This selfless love enables one to be at the service of others – to serve as Jesus Christ served. It is not what we do that will change people’s hearts, but it is the love that motivates what we say and do that will convince people that we too speak for God!
God bless us all always!
Deacon Mike