Scriptures:
- Jeremiah 11:18-20
- Psalm 7:1-2, 8-10
- John 7:40-52
Exhortation:
As we journey deeper into the Lenten season, today’s readings draw us into the heart of trusting God's justice even in the face of rejection, opposition, and false judgment. Lent is not only a season of repentance but also one of refining — a time when our faith is tested, our hearts are exposed, and our trust in God is purified.
Jeremiah 11:18-20 paints the picture of the prophet betrayed by those close to him — his own people plotted against him like a lamb led to the slaughter. Jeremiah’s cry echoes the deep agony of being misunderstood and targeted for speaking God's truth. Yet, in his pain, he turned to God, declaring, “O LORD of hosts, who judges righteously, who tests the heart and the mind, let me see your vengeance upon them, for to you have I committed my cause.”
In Psalm 7, David offers a similar prayer of desperate trust, seeking refuge in God amid the threat of enemies seeking to tear him apart. His prayer is one of appeal to the righteous Judge who examines hearts and minds. “My shield is with God, who saves the upright in heart.” Lent is a shielded time — not a hiding from the world but a pressing into the presence of God, our stronghold in trouble.
In John 7:40-52, we witness the confusion and division among the people about Jesus. Some believe, others question, and still others reject Him outright — not because of the truth, but because of prejudice and pride. Nicodemus, quietly courageous, raises a voice of reason, reminding the Pharisees that justice must precede judgment. But even he is dismissed. The Lenten Christ, like Jeremiah, is misunderstood, judged unfairly, and yet walks in obedience to the Father’s will.
Reflection:
Today, you may feel misjudged, unseen, or even attacked for standing in truth. Let this be your Lenten resolve: to entrust your cause to God, the Righteous Judge, who examines hearts and defends the upright. Let your prayer echo David’s — “Judge me, O Lord, according to my righteousness and according to the integrity that is in me.” (Psalm 7:8)
The road to Calvary is marked by rejection, but it ends in resurrection. You are not alone on this path. Christ walked it before you, and He walks it with you now. Trust in the justice of God. He sees. He knows. And in due time, He will vindicate.
Prayer:
Lord, I commit my cause to You today. In this season of Lent, refine my heart, strengthen my faith, and help me to walk in righteousness even when falsely judged or opposed. Be my shield, my refuge, and my righteous Judge. Like Jeremiah and David, I trust in Your vindication. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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