HIGH FIVE! (Thank you for remembering me)

Jeremiah 36:27–32 highlights the indestructibility of God’s word, the accountability of leaders who reject it, and God’s determination to restate His message even when humans try to silence it. It’s a moment where divine revelation confronts human arrogance—and prevails.

📜 What Happens in Jeremiah 36:27–32?

After King Jehoiakim cuts up and burns Jeremiah’s prophetic scroll—word by word—God commands Jeremiah to rewrite the entire message, adding even more judgment because of the king’s defiance.

🔍 Key Themes and Significance

🕊️ 1. God’s Word Cannot Be Destroyed

Jehoiakim tries to erase the prophecy by burning the scroll, but God simply has Jeremiah write it again.

• This shows the permanence and resilience of God’s word.
• Human rejection does not cancel divine truth.
• Attempts to silence God only result in the message returning with greater force.

This theme is echoed in commentaries emphasizing the “enduring impact of Scripture” and its unstoppable nature.

📣 2. Rebellion Against God’s Word Brings Consequences

Because Jehoiakim destroyed the scroll, God adds a specific judgment against him:

• His dynasty will not endure.
• His body will be dishonored.
• Judah will face disaster.

This reinforces a biblical pattern: rejecting God’s correction leads to intensified consequences.

✍️ 3. Faithful Obedience from Jeremiah and Baruch

While the king rejects the message, Jeremiah and Baruch remain faithful:

• Jeremiah dictates the words again.
• Baruch writes them again.
• They persist despite danger and opposition.

Their obedience contrasts sharply with Jehoiakim’s arrogance. Commentaries highlight this as a model of courageous faithfulness in proclaiming truth.

🔄 4. God Repeats His Message Until It Is Heard

God does not abandon His people even when they resist Him. By commanding the scroll to be rewritten, He shows:

• Patience in giving Judah another chance to repent.
• Commitment to making His will known.
• Mercy, even in judgment.

🧭 Why This Matters Spiritually and Practically

For personal reflection:

• God’s word will stand even when culture, leaders, or individuals reject it.
• Attempts to silence conviction do not remove responsibility.
• Faithfulness sometimes means repeating truth even when it’s unwelcome.
• God’s persistence with Judah mirrors His persistence with us—He keeps speaking until we listen.

For leadership (which you value deeply, Kevin):

• Leaders are accountable for how they respond to truth.
• Integrity means receiving correction rather than destroying it.
• Faithful messengers must continue speaking even when authority resists.

🌟 In One Sentence

Jeremiah 36:27–32 teaches that God’s word is unstoppable, human defiance is accountable, and faithful obedience ensures that truth continues to shine even when others try to extinguish it.

THANK YOU… This morning, I am gonna help Scott and shovel the Church (we are on the Council)… In the afternoon, I have to work on Toastmaster stuff… Will you help me with emails that I have to send to my home Toastmaster club and Toastmasters Area? (It is contest season) I do have some important information to give my club and Area.

Absolutely, Kevin. You’ve got a full day of service and leadership lined up—shoveling the church in the morning, then stepping into Toastmasters mode in the afternoon. That’s very you: grounded service first, then purposeful communication.

Let’s get you set up so the Toastmasters work this afternoon feels smooth and already half-done.

✉️ Let’s Prepare Your Two Emails

You mentioned you have important information to give both:

1. Your home Toastmasters club
2. Your Toastmasters Area (the clubs you oversee as Area Director)

To craft strong, clear, motivating emails, I need just a few details from you so I can tailor them perfectly.

🔎 Before I draft them, tell me these quick things:

For your home club email:

• What is the date of your club’s contest?
• What roles or help do you need from members?
• Do you want to encourage members to compete, volunteer, or both?
• Any deadlines they need to know?

For your Area email:

• What specific information do you need to give the clubs? (Examples: Area contest date/time/location, deadlines for club winners, required forms, roles needed, etc.)
• Do you want the tone to be formal, motivational, or friendly and energetic?
• Are you sending this to club officers only or to all members in the Area?

🧭 Once you give me those details

I’ll craft:

• A polished, professional email for your home club
• A strong, clear Area Director email for all clubs in your Area
• Both written in your voice: encouraging, organized, and purpose-driven

You’ll be able to copy/paste and send them this afternoon without stress.

Whenever you’re ready, just share the details and I’ll take it from there.

THANKS BE TO GOD.

HIGH FIVE!

Jeremiah 30:12-22 is a profound passage that speaks to the themes of restoration, hope, and divine intervention. Let’s delve into its significance:

Context and Themes

This passage is part of a larger section known as the “Book of Consolation” (Jeremiah 30-33), where the prophet Jeremiah conveys messages of hope and restoration to the people of Israel. At this point, Israel is suffering due to their disobedience and the resulting consequences, including exile and devastation.

Key Points in Jeremiah 30:12-22

1. Acknowledgment of Suffering: The text begins by acknowledging the severe wounds and incurable condition of Israel (vv. 12-13). This symbolizes the depth of their affliction and the perceived hopelessness of their situation.
2. Divine Judgment: Verses 14-15 emphasize that the suffering is a result of their iniquity and the judgment of God. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.
3. Promise of Healing and Restoration: Despite the grim beginning, the passage transitions to a message of hope. God promises to restore Israel’s health and heal their wounds (v. 17). This divine intervention signifies God’s mercy and faithfulness.
4. Reversal of Fortunes: Verses 18-20 describe the transformation of Jacob’s (Israel’s) fortunes. The cities will be rebuilt, and the people will rejoice. This restoration is both physical and spiritual, as the community is revitalized.
5. Covenantal Relationship: The passage concludes with a reaffirmation of the covenant between God and Israel (vv. 21-22). God will bring forth a leader from among them, and they will be His people, and He will be their God. This highlights the enduring relationship between God and His chosen people.

Significance

The text in Jeremiah 30:12-22 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s willingness to restore and heal, even in the face of severe judgment. It underscores the importance of repentance and the assurance that God’s mercy can bring renewal and hope. For believers, this passage offers encouragement that no matter how dire the circumstances, God’s promise of restoration remains steadfast.

Reflection

How does this message resonate with your current journey and aspirations? Are there aspects of restoration and hope that you find particularly meaningful? Let’s explore and reflect on these themes together.

Feel free to share your thoughts or any other questions you might have!

Why do some “Christians” judge me for being Lutheran?

(MY CHOICE IS TO READ, LEARN, LIVE, AND UNDERSTAND)…

It’s disheartening when people judge others for their faith, especially within the same broader community. Let’s unpack a few reasons why this might happen:

Theological Differences

Different Christian denominations, such as Lutheran, Catholic, Baptist, and others, have distinct beliefs and practices. These theological differences can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or disagreements. For example, Lutherans emphasize salvation by grace through faith alone, which may contrast with other denominations’ views on salvation.

Historical Context

Historically, the Protestant Reformation, initiated by Martin Luther, led to the formation of Lutheranism and other Protestant denominations. This split from the Catholic Church created deep-seated divisions, and some of these historical tensions may still influence attitudes today.

Cultural and Personal Bias

Individuals’ personal experiences, cultural background, and upbringing can shape their views on other denominations. Sometimes, this can lead to biases or preconceived notions about certain groups.

Lack of Understanding

Judgment often stems from a lack of understanding or knowledge about another person’s beliefs. Misconceptions or stereotypes about Lutherans can contribute to unfair judgment.

Reflection and Connection

It’s important to remember that, at its core, Christianity teaches love, compassion, and unity. While theological differences exist, the shared foundation of faith in Jesus Christ should foster mutual respect and understanding.

Finding Common Ground

Engaging in open, respectful conversations with others about your beliefs can help bridge gaps and promote understanding. Sharing your experiences and learning about theirs can create opportunities for connection and growth.

Your Inner Strength

Despite the judgment you may face, your commitment to your faith and personal journey is what truly matters. Embrace the values and teachings that resonate with you, and let your inner strength and grace shine through.

THANKS BE TO GOD!!!

HIGH FIVE!

Jeremiah 31:7-14 is a passage from the Bible that holds significant spiritual and theological meaning. Here are a few key points to consider:

Restoration and Hope:

This passage is part of a broader message of hope and restoration. Jeremiah, often called the “weeping prophet,” delivers this message to the people of Israel, promising that God will gather and restore them from their places of exile.

Joy and Celebration:

The text speaks of joy, singing, and dancing as people are brought back to their land. This symbolizes a return to a state of blessing and favor from God.

Divine Compassion:

God’s compassion is evident throughout the passage, emphasizing that despite the suffering and hardships faced by the people, God remains merciful and loving.

Spiritual Renewal:

The mention of the people being satisfied with abundance and the young women dancing signifies not just physical restoration but also spiritual and emotional renewal.

Covenant Relationship:

The promises in this passage highlight the covenant relationship between God and the people of Israel. It reassures them that God’s commitment to them is enduring, even in the face of their transgressions.

This passage is often seen as a source of encouragement and inspiration, reminding believers of God’s faithfulness and the promise of renewal and restoration.

Do these insights resonate with what you were looking for?

WHY ME???

You might be asking “Why me?” in response to a number of situations. Whether you’re feeling particularly singled out, overwhelmed, or even blessed, that question is a powerful one. In the context of Jeremiah 31:7-14, it’s a profound query. The passage speaks of God’s commitment to His people, reassuring them that despite their trials, they are not forgotten.

On a more personal level, feeling like you’re singled out can be both a challenge and a unique opportunity. It can mean you’re facing difficulties that seem heavier than others, or it can mean you’re being called to something significant. It’s important to seek understanding and find meaning in those moments. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s also okay to reach out for support—whether it’s from friends, family, or even your spiritual community.

How are you feeling about everything right now? Sometimes talking it through can provide clarity.

LET’s GO RUNNING (Don’t forget… it’s your Mom’s birthday tomorrow)

Got it! 🏃‍♂️ Let’s lace up those sneakers and hit the trails! And thanks for the heads-up about your mom’s birthday tomorrow. Maybe we can brainstorm some great ideas for celebrating her special day?

What’s your go-to running playlist, by the way? A good beat can really make those miles fly by! 🎵💨