26 June 2008

Commemoration of the Prophet Jeremiah

Today our Synod commemorates and gives thanks to God for the ministry of the prophet Jeremiah. From the LCMS website:

The prophet Jeremiah was active as God's prophet to the southern kingdom of Judah ca. 627 to 582 B.C. As a prophet he predicted, witnessed, and lived through the Babylonian siege and eventual destruction of Jerusalem in 587 B.C. In his preaching he often used symbols, such as an almond rod (Jer. 1:11-14), wine jars (13:12-14), and a potter at work (18:1-17). His entire prophetic ministry was a sermon, communicating through word and deed God's anger toward his rebellious people. He suffered repeated rejection and persecution by his countrymen. As far as can be known, he died in Egypt, having been taken there forcibly. He is remembered and honored for fearlessly calling God's people to repentance.

Jeremiah always comes to mind when we sing LSB 586: "Preach You the Word"

Preach you the word and plant it home
To men who like or like it not,
The word that shall endure and stand
When flow'rs and men shall be forgot.

Glory to You, Lord Jesus, for Your servant Jeremiah! May the words You spoke through him strengthen and sustain our faith until we join him and all the saints around the throne in singing Your praise!

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