To the editor:
Jesus served the rest in his ministry, which we are called to do in our lives today. True disciples of Christ know and understand what Jesus wants us to do. Do each of us harbor that inner terror that the “Founder of Psychology” Sigmund Freud termed “paranoia” as the unfounded idea that someone is out to get us? I believe that “someone” is called Satan working on the weaknesses of negative, destructive human emotions — the pit that only Jesus can take us out of if we call on him. The Prophet Jeremiah had reason to fear … he wanted to be left alone. God had another plan for him, but once he accepted God’s will, he turned prophet, a powerful spokesman for God and for God’s truth. The truth had disturbed the people of Jerusalem so deeply that they were angry and the leaders wanted to drive Jeremiah from the city. Jesus knew there was a price to pay for God’s truth. When he and his disciples walked toward Jerusalem, he knew his words of truth would meet harsh opposition … one that would be satisfied only with his death.
Jesus and Jeremiah shared many common traits. They spoke God’s truth, lived God’s law and offered God’s love. People were always threatened by what they perceived as contrary to their own beliefs, hence, the real paranoia. In our own time, religious beliefs and secular influences fight for our loyalty. Even when we do all we can in the name of God’s love, not everyone understands, appreciates, or accepts it because it doesn’t put cash in the register.
We as ministers, prophets, teachers etc. like Jesus and Jeremiah place our trust in God’s love and power which is all for us and ever active. A follower of Jesus knows and accepts what Jesus wants from us: to give an example of service. Service is free like the multiplied bread at the lakeside, or when Jesus washes the feet of his disciples. No seeking for self. No search for power. This is pure, sweet everlasting love! Amen.
Caribou
