Sunday of the Week of Lent II
Today’s readings: Jeremiah 1:1-10; 1 Corinthians 3:11-23; Mark 3:31–4:9
Now the word of the LORD came to me saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you…” Then Jeremiah said, “Ah, Lord God! Behold I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.” But the Lord said to me, “…to all whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak…be not afraid of them, for I am with you…says the LORD” (Jer 1:4-8).
Although this is the account of the call of the prophet Jeremiah, these words of the Lord speak to each of us. God calls each of us to speak, to serve—and we have lots of reasons or excuses why we can’t or won’t.
It is useful to remember, “God doesn’t call those who are gifted—God gives gifts to those He calls!” As God calls Jeremiah, He promises the new prophet that he need not be afraid of those to whom he will be sent or hesitant to speak to those to whom he is to speak, for the Lord God will be with him. Oh, if only God would be with us in the same way!
Yet, is He not? Jesus promises that He will be with us wherever two or three are gathered in His name. He assures us, “Lo, I am with you always…” His words to Jeremiah are spoken to you and me as well: “be not afraid…for I am with you!”
When called to serve in some new way; when given an opportunity to share the Gospel; when we have the chance to walk alongside a new believer, we need not hesitate or allow ourselves to be fearful, for the Lord God who calls us is with us!
Prayer: Lord God, I don’t know how to speak, what to share, how to proclaim the Good News, but I know you are with me. Amen.
Lenten Response: Write in large letters on a sheet of paper: “Be not afraid, for I am with you!” and tape it to your bedroom/bathroom mirror so you may see it as you begin your day.
Today’s devotion was written by the Rev. Dr. David M. Wendel, Assistant to the Bishop for Ministry and Ecumenism.
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