Ambivalent

 Jeremiah 1-3 

So I talked to this young, expecting mother about the importance of safe sleep for a newborn. No pillows, blankets, toys. I arrive at her home, as a home visiting nurse, to see the baby shortly after birth. And she is asleep, surrounded by pillows, blankets, and toys. I talked to another mother about cutting back on smoking by using nicotine patches. On my next visit, I ask if she was able to get a prescription for the patches. Her eyes drop and she says a shy, “No…” I try not to look judgmental or disappointed. We have further discussions but inside, I am a bit frustrated and when I have a full day of those kinds of interactions, I really start to question my choice of vocations. And I also feel like I might be getting a taste of what Jeremiah went through and understand how he got his nick-name, “The Weeping Prophet.” 

In his self-titled book, Jeremiah is introduced as the young son of a priest, making him a Levite. Most Biblical scholars agree he was probably a cup bearer and probably around 17 to 20 years old. Reminiscent of Moses, God calls Jeremiah to him and gives him an important job. While Moses’s excuse was that he was not a good public speaker, Jeremiah tells God, “But I’m just a boy.” (1:6) I wonder if God rolled His eyes. : ) 

But God goes on to tell him that he is to be a prophet, to warn Judah that destruction is coming. God gives him the words and in the first 3 chapters of the book, Jeremiah is pretty harsh. Like in Hosea, and throughout the Old Testament, he compares Judah, and Israel as a whole, to cheating spouses. But unlike Jonah and the prophet Zephaniah, Jeremiah is largely ignored. He warns, he pleads, and the people continue to do their own thing. They know God exists but ignore His direction and commands. And Jeremiah knows what the coming consequences are. 

They were ambivalent. I mentioned that word in yesterday’s devotion. It is a good word for describing those sitting on a proverbial ‘fence.’ They know the consequence of their behavior, but the behavior is easier, more fun. There are a lot of, “ Yeah, but…” in the conversations. Yeah, I know I should stop smoking, but it’s so hard. Yeah I know God is going to destroy our nation, but is my little idol really going to make a difference? It can be so frustrating for those whose job it is to dole out the warnings. I’ve only been a nurse, giving medical and safety advice for about 7 years. Jeremiah was a prophet for over 40 years. I can only imagine! And he wasn’t allowed to quit! 

As we read these passages that are hard to read or hear, let us think about the areas in our own lives where we are ambivalent about our obedience to the Lord. 

Prayer: 

Dear Lord, help us to listen to your Word and those in our lives who give us Godly wisdom. Help us embrace what is good and what is good for us in Your eyes and reject the bad. Please let us let go of excuses. 

In Christ’s Name, 

Amen 

-Maria Knowlton

Reflection Questions

1. Do you more often stubbornly follow your own evil heart or go God’s way?
2. In what areas of your life have you been or are you currently ambivalent about obeying God? What excuses have you tried giving God or others about your actions or attitudes?
3. What changes might Jeremiah prescribe for you personally? For your church? For your nation and world today?