Jeremiah 1:4-5, 17-19 | 1 Corinthians 12:4-13 | Gospel of Luke
Jeremiah is consecrated, within his mother’s womb, to Yahweh’s service. As a prophet, Yahweh sustains him as he confronts kings, rural folk and citified sophisticates. The analogy of a fortified city reveals the death of his resolve.
The faith community, in Corinth, is blessed with spiritual gifts. Paul reminds believers to treasure and to implement them. The constancy of the Holy Spirit is the Sacred Source. Yet, they must use the gifts as “the Way” to gather all into the Kingdom.
Within the synagogue, Jesus reads from the Sacred Scroll. He refers to Elijah’s concern for non-Israelites. The widow of Zarephath, along with Elisha’s healing of Naaman, the Syrian-leper, offends the Hebraists. The Messiah is for the children of Abraham. A violent assault upon Jesus of Nazareth, predestines his tortured journey – journey to Calvary.
Prayer
Risen Savior,
Forgive our failure to accept the mercy you extend to sinful humanity. We categorize human frailties while you see each of us, as a beautiful creation, with holy potential.
Thank you, Lord. Amen. Joanne Roda, Associate