Jeremiah 28:5-9 (NRSV)
Read Jeremiah 28:5-9 on biblegateway.com
Verse 5Then the prophet Jeremiah spoke to the prophet Hananiah in the presence of the priests and all the people who were standing in the house of the Lord; Verse 6and the prophet Jeremiah said, "Amen! May the Lord do so; may the Lord fulfill the words that you have prophesied, and bring back to this place from Babylon the vessels of the house of the Lord, and all the exiles. Verse 7But listen now to this word that I speak in your hearing and in the hearing of all the people. Verse 8The prophets who preceded you and me from ancient times prophesied war, famine, and pestilence against many countries and great kingdoms. Verse 9As for the prophet who prophesies peace, when the word of that prophet comes true, then it will be known that the Lord has truly sent the prophet."
Devotion
We live in a world of conflict, sometimes personal, sometimes professional. The prophet Jeremiah faces a conflict of vision, of distinguishing what God’s message is for the people. His adversary Hananiah confronts him with a vision of peace, of prosperity, of overcoming opponents. Not Jeremiah! He sees days of judgment, war, and destruction ahead. Both claim to speak for God. Who is one to believe?
Wait? Pray? Look at oneself and the direction of life within a community or nation? Maybe Jeremiah is correct? If so, what can we do? What can I do? Where is God’s grace trying to lead me? To confession? Repentance?
Nah! I like Hananiah’s message better. I’ll vote for peace, prosperity, and overcoming our opponents, our enemies. Isn’t that God’s desire for us?
We learn who the true prophet is when what they speak comes to be. The book is named for Jeremiah. Who wants to bet on Hananiah?
Prayer
God of grace, open our eyes and hearts to your way and will for the world. By your grace help us turn back to you, and so turn to our neighbor. In Jesus name. Amen.