Blessed are those who trust in the LORD, whose trust is in the LORD. They shall be like a tree planted by water, sending out its roots by the stream. It shall not fear when heat comes, and its leaves shall stay green; in the year of drought it is not anxious, and it does not cease to bear fruit.
Jeremiah 17:7-8
This passage from Jeremiah has strong meaning in my life! I have tried to live knowing that our LORD is an extremely important part of my life. This passage concerns the keeping of faith even in difficult personal times. Thinking of the passage's meaning - In good times - (we are well watered and feel the warm sunshine) - emotionally happy times, our relationships are all going well, and financially we prosper - these are the times when it is easy to feel our LORD's blessings and spread our LORD's message in a positive, confident and encouraging manner to all around us. When all is well in our lives, our Lord's blessings seem uncomplicated and undemanding. However, when times of "heat and drought" come into our lives, how will we deal with them? Will we curse our LORD and ask why? Or will we draw on our faith? Knowing confidently that Christ is in us and He will help us struggle through the times of "heat and drought." At difficult times it is often hard to remember that our LORD does not give us more then we can cope with. As Christians and members of a faithful community, we must also support others in their time of "heat and drought." Many of the Church's ministries are designed to provide the framework of care and assistance in times of trouble but still it is the members of the faithful community that can demonstrate to one another Christ's message of love and the peace that comes from trusting in the LORD.
Cathy Stasny (2009)
