Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany: Old Testament, Jeremiah 17:5-8                      

Jeremiah 17:5-8

Stark contrast marks the Old Testament passage for the week. As stark as curse vs blessing. And in God’s Word you could not be more at odds than those two realities. And nearly as clear are the causes. The curse is caused by trusting in man and his flesh and blessing comes when heart, mind and will are turned exclusively to the LORD. I know which group I want to live in.

What stands out this morning as I write is that I have to be reminded of this black/white contrast. And why? Because even as a baptized disciple of the risen Christ, other voices, pictures, and plans distract me. I’d bet that is true of you as well. Blessing comes in following our Lord and he makes that possible by constantly speaking. So light and dark, blessing and curse really comes down to listening well. Listening with attentiveness. Listening with full intention on following God’s own voice.

Blessing. Fruitfulness. And eternal life with the LORD. All of that comes by allowing God to lead and trusting that He knows best.