The first reading for Sunday is from the book of Jeremiah Jeremiah was a prophet called by God to deliver a message to the Kingdom of Judah. He brought to light their disobedience, idolatry, and the injustices they were committing. He deeply cared for the people and openly lamented at their impending destruction and exile. He was bringing a message of hope that their punishment would be lessened if they repented. Still today,  people do not like to be told they are wrong. Ultimately, the crowds twist his words and convince King Zedekiah to put Jeremiah to death by throwing him into a muddy pit.

Enter the brave hero, Ebed-melech, a servant of the king. He courageously approaches the King and advocates for Jeremiah.  Although he could have also been put to death, he convinces the King to release Jeremiah.

It is hard to do the right thing. Opposition finds us in family, friends, the secular world, or directly from the evil one who seeks the destruction of our soul telling us lies and twisting our words against us intending to toss us into a muddy pit. Like Jeremiah it seems at times the world is against our faith. 

Enter our brave hero, Jesus, Savior of not just me, but the World. Jesus courageously speaks the truth, stands up for us, even giving His own life to justify us and pull us out of the mud, if we choose to accept His love. 

And if we do choose God’s love, He also calls us to be like Jeremiah with the guidance of the Holy Spirit to lovingly deliver messages of hope. He calls us to be like Ebed-melech and bravely stand up for what is right and just. 

Lord, help us to seek to know your message so we can deliver it well.