Jeremiah is known as the weeping prophet. What a reputation to have! But why is that? Professor Saydon observes that no one in the history of Israel can be compared to Jesus as closely as Jeremiah can, because, among other things, like Jesus, he too was rejected, scourged, arrested, and, though innocent, condemned. Without doubt, this physical suffering also brought with it deep emotional and spiritual pain. But did Jeremiah know what he was getting himself into when he accepted God’s call? Naturally, he didn’t.
And although he had no idea what awaited him, when the Lord called him, Jeremiah was overcome by fear, that fear of the unknown, and he protested:
“Ah, Lord God! I do not know how to speak; I am only a child.” (Jer 1:6)
So imagine how much more strongly he would have resisted had he known exactly what lay ahead!
Jeremiah’s objection can easily become our own, yours or mine, when we are asked to take on some task or responsibility. Perhaps we too are seized by that same spirit of fear, saying: “I’m still young in age, young in virtue, young in wisdom, young in experience, small beside others, small before the greatness of this mission…”
Surely, both you and I face countless fears in our minds. But don’t let those fears defeat you. Be afraid only of deceiving yourself into thinking that you can do it all by your own strength, for you will soon lose heart. Keep always before your eyes what God promised Jeremiah: “Do not be afraid… for I am with you.” (Jer 1:8) And remember that yes, although you may be young or inexperienced in one way or another, God always chooses to work through humble instruments.
In light of all this, reflect on the words of Saint John Henry Newman, and make his prayer your own: “Lord, I do not ask to see the distant scene; one step enough for me.” With this prayer, rest in God’s embrace with boundless trust. The same God who knew you even before he formed you in the womb (Jer 1:5) will himself provide all that is necessary to accomplish his purpose, for he is always with us, beside us, and walking with us.
Gilbert Borg
SDC Candidate
