“Cursed is the Man who trusts in human beings, who seeks his strength in flesh…”
Jeremiah 17:5
Yikes! Any Scripture that includes such a warning should always leave us unsettled, a bit convicted AND empowered. In our Old tTestament reading for today, we are reminded not to draw our strength from things of this earth. I don’t know about you but sometimes a hug from my spouse, a kind word from a co-worker, or even an occasional slice of chocolate cake can certainly boost my spirits. When I am benefiting from these goods am I a “barren bush”? Not if I am properly ordered! If Christ is the center of my life, I can clearly see that these worldly goods are a generous extension from the God who loves me dearly. Yet, my friends, if I am seeking first these bodily or emotional comforts as primary sources for daily coping, I most certainly am cursed! But not by our Lord. I’m cursed by my self-indulgent nature that seeks a quick fix rather than dependably flawless strength. Why would we ever deprive ourselves of the Greatest Good? “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose hope is in the Lord!” May we increase our trust in the Lord each new day and bear much spiritual fruit in order to bring His Kingdom come.
How can I more properly order my life with Christ as my true source of strength?
Jesus, grant me the grace to seek you above all else. Amen
Today’s Reflection is by:
Jina Masters
Did you know...
Jina Masters, longtime parishioner of Incarnation Catholic Church, is employed at Tampa Catholic High School as the Theology Chair and Christian Service Coordinator for the community. She founded the Blessed Edmund Society of Tampa at the high school, dedicated to humbly serving nonprofits according to the 7 Social Teachings of the Catholic Church. Jina’s primary vocation, as wife of Travis Masters and mother to their 4 magnificent children, is her greatest joy! Her goals include loving Jesus more each day and someday making it to the bottom of the laundry pile :)
