Scripture: Jeremiah 17: 9-11 

Meditation: 

In this passage, Jeremiah explains that God sees injustice, and He is not indifferent to it. The books of the prophets are full of His promises that justice will come to those who gain at the detriment of others, or who wield power oppressively — they will be rewarded according to what their deeds deserve, Jeremiah says.  

Few people actively choose to act with prejudice or to become racist. Rather these attitudes slowly become entrenched in our hearts as we cling to subtle excuses or explanations, preferences or biases. At the root of racism is a heart that is deceitful. A heart that says my comfort or my property is more essential than your life. My values are more honorable than yours. My way is better than yours. The heart of every human is deceitful above all things, Jeremiah warns us.  

Many of us would never actually say these things, but most likely we have thought them. Not one of us is immune to the self-deceit of pride or wanting control. Our mind plays tricks on us to justify our thoughts, if not our actions.  

Jesus’ work on the cross was costly, because the depth of our sin is great. Those who follow Him must constantly examine their own heart for signs of self-deceit. It is not a once and done event. Being a Christian does not insure us immunity from self-deceit. Being a compassionate person does not give us a pass. The work of reconciliation is a work of constant examination and repentance. Of putting off and putting on. Of owning our role, however large or small, in prejudice or racism and committing to standing and acting against injustice. Only through the power of Jesus is this kind of change — the transforming of our deceitful hearts — possible.  

Examine your heart honestly and consider any thoughts that need to be taken captive, and put off.  

Pray: Jesus, thank You that You came to save and not condemn. It is with this hope that I pursue a heart of justice and mercy instead of a heart of deceit. Thank You that through Your grace You demonstrate dying to self and being made new. Lord, heal our world and start with me.  Amen.