Monday 08 March 2021

Psalm 100

Background

Mount Rushmore is famous for the gigantic sculpture of the heads of four American Presidents which have been carved out of the rock. Visitors feel very small and insignificant as they look up at these powerful faces.

The book of Jeremiah starts in a similar way. It begins with a list of the Kings who were reigning at that time and then introduces us to Jeremiah in the womb. The contrast between these powerful rulers and a tiny child is very stark. No wonder Jeremiah wants to remind God that “I am only a boy” (v. 6).

This is not an acceptable excuse for God and there are several reasons for that. Firstly, God knew and consecrated Jeremiah before he was born (v. 5), so God’s awareness of him is deeper and greater than Jeremiah’s own self-assessment. Secondly, God will be with Jeremiah (v. 8) which means that there is no need for him to be afraid. Thirdly, God touches Jeremiah’s mouth (v. 9), placing within him the words he needs.

Touching someone’s mouth is a very intimate thing to do. It is normally only done by lovers or dentists! I wonder whether your sense of God’s call on your life has felt more like a lover’s kiss or a dentist’s drill?  Both can affect our whole being and also prevent us from speaking temporarily. There is wisdom here for prophets and preachers. Allow God to put a finger over your lips before you speak. Let the silence remind you that your words do not depend on your own strength but are given by God.        

To Ponder:

• What excuses have you made to God recently?
• Which of the following do you find the most reassuring?
  God knows us better than we know ourselves.
  God is with us.
  God will give us the words we need. 
• Has your sense of God’s call on your life felt more like a lover’s kiss or a dentist’s drill?

Prayer

Touch my lips, Loving God, and give me the words I need today. Amen.