Focus

Close your eyes and open yourself as you relax into a peaceful state. Be willing to expose yourself for who you are as God created you to be. Breathe deeply as you prepare to hear God’s Word.

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Read

Jeremiah 1:11-19 (NRSV)

The word of the LORD came to me, saying, “Jeremiah, what do you see?” And I said, “I see a branch of an almond tree.” Then the LORD said to me, “You have seen well, for I am watching over my word to perform it.” The word of the LORD came to me a second time, saying, “What do you see?” And I said, “I see a boiling pot, tilted away from the north.”

Then the LORD said to me: Out of the north disaster shall break out on all the inhabitants of the land. For now I am calling all the tribes of the kingdoms of the north, says the LORD; and they shall come and all of them shall set their thrones at the entrance of the gates of Jerusalem, against all its surrounding walls and against all the cities of Judah. And I will utter my judgments against them, for all their wickedness in forsaking me; they have made offerings to other gods, and worshiped the works of their own hands. But you, gird up your loins; stand up and tell them everything that I command you. Do not break down before them, or I will break you before them. And I for my part have made you today a fortified city, an iron pillar, and a bronze wall, against the whole land—against the kings of Judah, its princes, its priests, and the people of the land. They will fight against you; but they shall not prevail against you, for I am with you, says the LORD, to deliver you.

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Reflect

Jonquils and flowering trees are the thrill of spring after several months of cold weather and snow turning into mud. Our whole disposition changes and we actually look forward to mowing grass again. The almond tree represented this hope and promise of spring but it meant much more to them. While the other trees were still in their dormant state the almond tree was the first to present their white and pinks flower for the hope of spring. The tree was called the “awakening one” and it represented to Jeremiah and Israel the ever present wakefulness of God and his providential care.

If we keep our hearts and minds on His sovereignty and watch care over us, the fear of others, fear of trouble, and fear of the unknown could not enter into our being, because he never sleeps. With this hope, we can stand steadfast and boldly in our faith to witness to the world and speak the truth of his Word, Jesus Christ.

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Pray

When I am fearful, bring your peace and comfort to my heart that I can stand boldly and faithfully in your service. In the Holy name of Jesus, Amen.

Go with God!