The prophet Jeremiah received a very strong message to preach in the name of the Lord. He was told, ''You must speak all the words that I have commanded you to the people who come to worship in the Temple. Do not omit one syllable.'' (Jeremiah 26:1-9). Jeremiah did exactly as he had been commanded but his words were totally rejected by the priests and people. ''You shall die,'' they theatened him, ''Why have you made this prophecy in the name of the Lord?'' No one would accept Jeremiah but surely we would think that when Jesus came to preach in his home town of Nazareth, he would be listened to. At first the people were astonished at his wisdom and miraculous powers, but then they began to have second thoughts. ''Isn't he the carpenter's son? ''they asked. ''We know his mother Mary,'' so what right does he have to teach us? When we hear his teachings in the gospels, we have the chance to make up for all those who rejected Jeremiah and Jesus himself. We believe that you have the words of eternal life, Lord, but sometimes we too do not allow your words to touch our every day thoughts, feelings and actions. We too can write people off and not listen to them because we don't value their opinions. Protect all those who are with me on the journey of life, Lord. May we walk together respecting and appreciating the gifts you have given us.
Don Hornsey
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