Bold examples

First Reading: Jeremiah 13:1-11
Responsorial Psalm: Deuteronomy 32
Gospel: Matthew 13:31-35

I remember during a football practice some of the guys on the line were not blocking as they should. So instead of simply yelling out the correct way to block, my offensive line coach decides to make a very bold move and show us the correct way to block. He goes on in (without any pads or helmet) with the offense and he tells the defensive people across from him (who all have full pads and helmets) to go full speed. We of course all thought that he was crazy for going in, but once the ball was snapped we saw a man who was able to go in without any protection and block several college aged guys in full pads. I will never forget this to this day, because instead of just telling us he decided that a bold example would be the best way of teaching us.

In the first reading today God has the prophet Jeremiah go through a series of steps to provide an example to the prophet. I am sure that while wearing and burying this loin cloth Jeremiah must have been thinking "okay now why on Earth am I messing around with this loincloth, isn't there more important things that I should be doing?" But after listening to the Lord it is revealed, the Lord doesn't simply tell Jeremiah how the people have turned away from Him, he likens them to this very bold example. I am sure after this, the prophet never forgot this. It is the same way as Jesus talks to the crowds. He explains things in parables, many of these parables and examples that Jesus uses are very bold. But he does this so that the people may make a connection with what he is saying, and therefore remember it.

There are bold examples happening all around us everyday, either through words or actions. Are you paying attention?

Father in heaven, grant us the wisdom and strength to go out and do your will each day. Help us to go out and serve you to our fullest and to give all of ourselves to you. Lord we love you and thank you for all that you bless us with. We thank you and give you praise for all that we have and all that we are. Lord, be with those who go without and need your healing power. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.