Jeremiah 26:1-9 / Matthew 13:54-58
There are two things in life that give us some kind of security and stability.
And that is routine and familiarity.
To do the same thing day in day out might sound boring.
But it does give us the peace of mind that everything is stable and secure.
However, if our routine and familiarity is shaken, then we will become irritated and annoyed.
In the first reading, the prophet Jeremiah preached God's call to repentance at the Temple.
But the priests and people threaten to execute him for speaking hard truths.
Because they thought that the Temple will keep them safe and they can continue with their familiar rituals and practices.
They did not think, nor believe, that God would ever let the Temple be destroyed.
In the gospel, it was the people’s familiarity with Jesus that made them question His background.
Jesus did not work many miracles there because of their lack of faith.
So when our routine and familiarity is shaken and disturbed, let us not get irritated and annoyed.
Let us reflect and ponder, and see if there is a meaning and a message for us.
It is in listening to God and doing what He wants of us that will keep us safe and secure.