“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord,    whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes;     its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”

(Jeremiah 17:7-8)

Jeremiah 17:5-8

This text describes those who trust in the Lord in an incredible way. It says that these faithful souls will not be anxious during drought. Even more, the verse suggests they will continue to bear fruit, even when things become difficult. 

These words can be challenging. To bear fruit during times of trial refers to people under stress who continue to love and care for themselves, their families, and others in their community. What brave souls! What noble souls! How do they do it? 

The recipe given by the prophet Jeremiah is simple: It is not they who love in times of trial—it is the Lord who loves through them. Somehow, they are allowing the Spirit to help them, to work through them while they face difficulties. All it requires is trust in the Lord, despite everything in them that says love is not possible. In their case, obedience to the Spirit is just letting go so the Spirit can work.

Reflections by Grant Tungay SJ

God of love, 

Give us the grace to trust in you completely. 

When times get tough, help us see that you are with us. 

Help us surrender to your love, 

which works in and through us. 

Amen.

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