Year C Epiphany 4 – Jeremiah 1:4-10; Psalm 71:1-6; 1 Corinthians 13; Luke 4:21-30
From ancient times, it was understood that the Creator knows his creation before they are conceived. Jeremiah was consecrated and anointed as God’s prophet before his birth. And once born, as a little boy, Jeremiah understood his calling from God.
The Psalmist confesses a dependence on God from birth. A child of covenant recognises that God calls from the womb. Praise is meant to be offered God all life long. Our lives are set aside by God for God.
In the famous “love chapter” (1 Corinthians 13), there is a portion often overlooked. After proclaiming the virtue of charity, and before elevating the Christian virtues of Faith, Hope, and Love, the apostle speaks of children and mirrors.
Scripture, as the Word of God, is a mirror. We look into that mirror and see ourselves. We do not always like what we see; but it is an honest reflection. Maturity is defined by putting away “childish ways”. Scripture assists us to mature not only in faith, hope, and love, but in understanding of who we are.
Jesus, like Jeremiah, was consecrated and anointed before birth. Also like Jeremiah, Jesus understood his calling as a child. When Jesus exercised God’s Word in ministry, family, neighbours, and friends struggled with his work. They only saw the little boy they knew. They did not see the Word of the pre-natal God.
Are you struggling today with issues of faith? Are you wrestling with doubts that plague your conscience? Look into the mirror of God’s Word. You will come face-to-face with your Creator who knew you before you were conceived.