Correct Me, O God, But in Just Measure

This meditation is based on a passage for March 31, 2011 in the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Jeremiah 10:11-24

Reflection and Question: In this passage, Jeremiah establishes God’s power and might by describing His ability to make rain, mist and lightening. God’s strength is in contrast to the golden idols made by human hands. Jeremiah reminds his listeners that God chose Israel as God’s portion, but that this has huge consequences as God puts Judah under siege. This wounding punishment of God’s own people will bring destruction and desolation. The provocative image for me is that of the stupid shepherds whose flocks are scattered, as God’s people will be soon. For what sinfulness do you ask God to justly correct you?

Prayer: I know, God, that mere mortals can’t run their own lives,
That men and women don’t have what it takes to take charge of life.
So correct us, God, as you see best. Don’t lose your temper.
That would be the end of us. Amen.
(Eugene Peterson, The Message, pp.1374-1375)