2 Kings 21, 23-25
2 Chronicles 33, 36
Jeremiah 1-2, 4-5, 13, 21
Lamentations 1-3, 5
Ezekiel 1-2, 6-7, 36-37

I’ve had this recurring dream in my life that causes me some anxiety. In this dream, I am at my high school and every student is gathering for an assembly. I have no idea what the assembly is about, but somehow I end up on stage in front of everyone! The room quiets down, the lights turn up, and I stand there… silent. I’m supposed to say something, but when I try to speak, nothing comes out. 

Stage fright, or even just talking to someone one-on-one can be an intimidating moment for any person, no matter how prepared they think you are.

Do you like speaking in front of other people? Why or why not?

This week’s reading highlights a new voice to the people of Israel: a prophet named Jeremiah. Jeremiah was not a well trained church worker, or a loud voiced public authority. In fact, he was just an average guy until God called him to speak up! This call to be a prophet (someone who shares God’s Word) was one that carried a large amount of responsibility. To make it even more complicated, Jeremiah was only around 16 years old! And he had to use his voice to speak hard truth to the whole nation of Israel. Can you imagine what he was feeling? I bet you can. And Jeremiah shared his reservations with God. 

Jeremiah said, “Sovereign Lord, I do not know how to speak; I am too young for this assignment!” (Jer. 1) But God responds patiently: “Do not say I am too young. Do not be afraid of the people you’ll speak to, for I am with you and will rescue you.” Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched Jeremiah’s mouth and said, “I have put My words in your mouth.”

How do you feel about talking with other people about God and the Gospel message of Jesus Christ? 

Are you comfortable or uncomfortable sharing the truth of God’s Word? Are you prepared or do you have no idea what to say or where to start?

Just like Jeremiah, we are called to speak and share God’s truth with everyone around us. No, our calling may not have been as intense as Jeremiah’s, seeing God speak to us and touch our lips. But our calling is just as personal and important. 

Jesus was the one who told us our mission after he rose from the dead and before he returned to heaven. He said this: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matt. 28:16-20) 

Everything that Jesus is telling us to do requires us to use our voices to bring people closer to God. We are to declare his goodness and love, the need for a Savior because of our sin, and the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ that allows all people to be saved! Our voices here teach, lead to baptism, and guide those around us to knowing the Lord. And just like God reassured Jeremiah, Jesus reassures us that he will always be with us as we speak His truth in our homes, our neighborhoods, and the world.

Here’s a final verse to think about: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have, and do this with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15) 

You are called. You have a voice. And you have the truth of God’s Word. Speak up and share this with those around you.