For God alone my soul waits in silence, for my hope is from him.
In today reading from Jeremiah, we read about people who have forgotten the God for whom their soul waits. They have worshipped the Queen of Heaven. The worship which seems primarily a religion of women is, at least according to those women, supported by their husbands who knew what they were doing. Times are hard, and clearly something needs to be done. They are waiting for salvation from this Queen of Heaven. Jeremiah warns it will not come.
James speaks to people who have a different God. They have put their trust not in God, nor in the Queen of Heaven, but in wealth. They have practiced what we would call “wage theft”. James warns these will not protect you either.
Where do we look today? Honestly, in the same places as the people of 2600 years ago or 2000 years ago. Many around us look for more powerful gods; perhaps ones that require from us what we are more willing to give. We look for protection in the things of the earth, in wealth, in military might, or in distraction. Perhaps we are looking just to ourselves for our salvation and happiness.
From Jeremiah and James, the answer is different. From where shall the salvation come that so many long for? It comes from God. When will it come? Be patient. How shall we endure in the mean time? Worship God. Do not forget the God of your ancestors. Pray. Sing. Confess. Care for others.
May the God of Peace and Love guide your hearts and minds today and may you find true riches in God’s service.
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