Read: Jeremiah 12:1-6
If in a safe land you are so trusting, what will you do in the thicket of the Jordan? (v. 6)
When I was young, I felt safe in my family, in my hometown and later on, as a student in the capital city of my country, Albania. But in 1997, the end of the repressive Communist government brought civil unrest and turmoil. I saw how peace collapsed with inexplicable, never-ending violence. My brothers—who had protected me in the past—immigrated to Greece. Even some good friendships broke that year and I couldn’t find a peaceful place to feel safe. I felt as if I was walking on a frozen lake that could crack at any moment.
Where to find safety in a troubled time? Today’s reading is a conversation between Jeremiah and God. Jeremiah cried out to God about the injustice he was seeing, as his country was invaded and the people sent into exile. He felt threatened and scared. God responded by reminding Jeremiah about where to put his trust—if Jeremiah only trusted when he felt safe in his city, what would he do when circumstances changed?
The thicket of the Jordan symbolized the challenges that would come for Jeremiah. God was warning Jeremiah he would need patience, perseverance and faith in the challenges ahead. All of this would strengthen him. He would demonstrate that God himself was his refuge and his strength. In 1997, in the midst of changes in my country, God taught me to lean on him for my safety.
As you pray, look at God as your land of peace, where you can put your faith and find safety.
About the Author
Irida Hoxha
Irida Hoxha served with CRU for 20 years where she was involved working with students, youth, digital strategies and the young professionals. Currently, she serves with Euroasia Partners organization. Irida enjoys writing. You can find most of her writings on her blog, “Këndi i Idës” (English: Ida’s Corner).
These devotionals were first published in Fjalet e Shpreses, Words of Hope’s Albanian devotional. Learn more about Words of Hope Albania, and our work in training and equipping local Christian leaders to write and share the Word of God.
