August 16th - Reflection

Jeremiah 23:30-40 (NRSV)
False prophets

See, therefore, I am against the prophets, says the Lord, who steal my words from one another. See, I am against the prophets, says the Lord, who use their own tongues and say, "Says the Lord." See, I am against those who prophesy lying dreams, says the Lord, and who tell them, and who lead my people astray by their lies and their recklessness, when I did not send them or appoint them; so they do not profit this people at all, says the Lord.

When this people, or a prophet, or a priest asks you, "What is the burden of the Lord?" you shall say to them, "You are the burden, and I will cast you off, says the Lord." And as for the prophet, priest, or the people who say, "The burden of the Lord," I will punish them and their households. Thus shall you say to one another, among yourselves, "What has the Lord answered?" or "What has the Lord spoken?" But "the burden of the Lord" you shall mention no more, for the burden is everyone's own word, and so you pervert the words of the living God, the Lord of hosts, our God. Thus you shall ask the prophet, "What has the Lord answered you?" or "What has the Lord spoken?" But if you say, "the burden of the Lord," thus says the Lord: Because you have said these words, "the burden of the Lord," when I sent to you, saying, You shall not say, "the burden of the Lord," therefore, I will surely lift you up and cast you away from my presence, you and the city that I gave to you and your ancestors. And I will bring upon you everlasting disgrace and perpetual shame, which shall not be forgotten.

Reflection
This whole "burden of the Lord" thing has become confusing to me. But the point I can take here, is that we need to watch and discern the person who seems to be talking for God. I like to look to scripture and evaluate what is said. This makes preaching a good exercise based on the Gospel or one of the Lessons of the day.  Another way to discern a speaker that is speaking "thus says the Lord" is to discuss the information with other Christians in your community, including the leaders and pastors. Discussion and study are two good ways to discern difficult words. But always be aware that the devil lurks in the shadows of our doubts waiting to attack. Sometimes it's not easy, but at all times keep that cross of Christ and Jesus in focus and pray for the best outcome, letting the Spirit guide you along the way.

Prayer
Lord, may I keep you in focus and all you did for me on that cross and in that tomb when I encounter another who seems to be spreading a false message. Send your Spirit to lead and guide me through these times, I pray. --- Amen