Jeremiah 26
One of the signs of our times is the moratorium on the judgment. Young people often say, “Don’t judge me!” Every human act is to be respected and accepted. The advancement of psychology helps us to understand all human behaviours emphatically. The rise of philosophical relativism provides the foundation for the deconstruction of traditional morality. Now, no one is wrong and everyone is right. Everyone is liberated, isn’t it?
However, this current reality of prevalent relativism and individualism forces us to make alternative judgments. It oppresses us to accept its values – utility, pleasure, convenience, comfort, efficiency, effectiveness, and the like.
Moreover, the widespread of individualism suppresses fraternal correction. As long as I don’t feel disturbed, you can do whatever you like. Why do I spend my energy to interfere with somebody’s life?
Thus, for the contemporary man, the prophets in the Bible are mysteries. There is no personal benefit for the prophets even if other people listen to them and repent. On the contrary, they risked their lives for others’ problems. Look at Jeremiah from the first reading and John the Baptist from the gospel. Jeremiah was almost stoned, and the Baptist, beheaded. They risked their lives for the truth.
Although we live under the tyranny of the political correctness culture, we still perceive what is true. And our conscience cries out when we witness lies and injustice. Not only Christians but also all good-willed people can make sound judgments on human actions and behaviours. The prophets’ voices are still resounding in our hearts and minds. We all have the prophets inside. Throughout history, many non-Christians shed their blood for the truth. Why? Why does the man risk his life for the truth? It’s because the Lord gives the man a heart that loves the truth. This love is a divine calling to God because God Himself is the ultimate truth. And this love for the truth also reveals the man as the one who is created in the image of God.
We Christians received the office of the prophet at baptism. To witness to the truth is a Christian duty. Let us listen to the prophet’s voice inside us. And let his voice resound through our lips so that the truth may fill our world.
