First Reading:  Jeremiah 17:5-8

Barren and Lush Plants

In the midst of his prophecy, Jeremiah compared the good and evil persons with a analogy from the plant world. The evil person was like the desert plant that knew no season, who only knew harsh conditions. [5-6] Why was this person cursed to unchanging barrenness? Notice who the person trusted, his friends and his own self ("flesh" of v. 5). This person depended on his/her looks, intelligence, or personality to persuade; he/she used wealth or friendships to promote his/her position. The person who depended only on the self and his/her friends did not see the greater picture and did not experience the greatness of God. Because of blind selfishness, the evil person did not grow emotionally or spiritually; he/she would never know joy.

The good person did grow because he/she trusted in God. The trust of a good person went beyond looks or intelligence or personality or friends. When those qualities failed (the "heat" and "drought" of v. 6-7), a spiritual life would keep the good person enriched and productive. The good person would spiritually mature and would know joy.

"All assets are liabilities; all liabilities are assets." Our talents can be our burdens; our burdens can be turned into talents. To see this paradox requires faith, firm trust in God.

What are your burdens and your talents? How can they give God glory?