HIGH FIVE! (I will be there Wednesday)

Here’s a clear, rich look at Jeremiah 22:11–17 and why this passage matters—spiritually, historically, and for leadership today.
Significance of Jeremiah 22:11–17
1. A Tale of Two Kings: Shallum vs. Jehoiakim
Jeremiah contrasts two sons of Josiah—Shallum (Jehoahaz) and Jehoiakim—to expose the collapse of Judah’s leadership.
Shallum (vv. 11–12)
- Identified as Jehoahaz, son of Josiah.
- Reigned only three months before being taken into exile by Egypt.
- God declares he will never return to Judah, symbolizing the end of his legitimacy.
Significance: Shallum’s fate shows how quickly a king’s power evaporates when he abandons God’s ways. His short, failed reign becomes a warning sign of Judah’s unraveling.
2. Jehoiakim’s Injustice Exposed (vv. 13–17)
These verses shift sharply to Jehoiakim, whose reign is marked by exploitation, vanity, and oppression.
God’s Charges Against Jehoiakim
- Forced labor: He made his neighbors work without wages.
- Lavish self-indulgence: He built a grand cedar palace while neglecting justice.
- Moral blindness: He thought kingship was about luxury rather than righteousness.
- Failure to defend the poor and needy, which God defines as the true measure of knowing Him.
Significance: Jehoiakim embodies the opposite of covenant leadership. His reign becomes a case study in how injustice corrodes a nation from the top down.
3. The Standard of True Kingship
Jeremiah points back to Josiah, the righteous king:
- He “did justice and righteousness,”
- He “judged the cause of the poor and needy,”
- And “then it was well with him.”
Key Insight: God defines kingship not by wealth, architecture, or political power, but by justice, compassion, and moral integrity.
4. Theological and Leadership Themes
A. Leadership Without Justice Is Illegitimate
Shallum’s exile and Jehoiakim’s condemnation show that God dismantles leaders who exploit others.
B. Knowing God = Doing Justice
Verse 16 is the heart of the passage:
“Is not this to know Me?” God ties spiritual authenticity directly to social righteousness.
C. Legacy Matters
Shallum’s and Jehoiakim’s stories reveal how a leader’s choices shape not only their fate but the destiny of the people they serve.
5. Why This Passage Still Speaks Today
Jeremiah 22:11–17 challenges anyone in a position of influence—whether over a family, a team, a ministry, or a community—to ask:
- Am I building something impressive or something righteous?
- Do my decisions lift burdens or place them on others?
- Does my leadership reflect God’s heart for the vulnerable?
It’s a call to integrity, humility, and justice—the kind of leadership God honors.

This past weekend, I hosted a speech competition… It was held at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Elementary School (OLD CAMPUS). I gathered funds to donate to the Parish from my Fellow Toastmasters. I will not be able to drop off these funds until Wednesday due to today being President’s Day (OFFICE CLOSED) and the fact that I will be at work all day TUESDAY. I will see you Ash Wednesday!

Kevin, this is exactly the kind of clear, respectful communication that reflects your character and your leadership. Here’s a polished version you can use as a message or email to the parish office.
Polished, Professional Version
Subject: Donation Drop-Off from Toastmasters Event
Good morning,
This past weekend, I hosted a Toastmasters speech competition at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Elementary School (Old Campus). I collected donations from my fellow Toastmasters to give to the Parish.
Due to the office being closed for President’s Day today and my full work schedule tomorrow, I will not be able to drop off the funds until Wednesday.
I look forward to seeing you on Ash Wednesday.
Thank you, Kevin

THANKS BE TO GOD.
(see you soon)









































































































































