Tuesday, March 21
Jeremiah 17:5-13
 
REFLECTION
In this prophetic passage found in the Old Testament, Jeremiah warns the people of Judah that continuing to live in their present lifestyle – trusting in themselves and other humans, rather than trusting wholeheartedly in God – would result in being cursed by God. Turning away from God was like withering in a desert land with no water for sustenance, being foolish and ashamed, and missing opportunities for an abundant life with no hope for life eternal.
 
In contrast, Jeremiah describes a far different lifestyle for those who put their trust in God. Instead of residing as in a parched land, they will be blessed by God like a tree that has no fear of drought and continues to bear fruit, having its roots in everlasting water that brings them hope in an eternal sanctuary, a place of safety in the Lord.
 
In whom do you put your trust? Your financial advisor? Your doctor? Your insurance broker? Your boss? Your colleagues? Your friends? If asked, most of us, if not all, would say without hesitation that we put our trust in God. After all, we sing hymns avowing that trust; we recite creeds affirming that trust; and we pray, believing in that trust.
 
God wants that trust to permeate every aspect of our lives. God wants to bless us, not curse us! God wants the Living Water to flow through us, flooding our entire being with the everlasting spring of God’s love and care, a fountain of Grace that never runs dry. All God asks of us is to trust him wholeheartedly!
 
PRAYER
Gracious God, help us not to put our trust in mere humans or ourselves. No matter what life brings our way, help us to trust you with our whole hearts. Amen.
 
Lorena Stone serves on the Adult Discipleship Team.