“Whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave.”

This famous quote of Jesus has inspired many people to humbly work their due without seeking fame, appraisal, or recognition. The joy of solitude with God makes this quote to live easily. However, there is a challenge even to the holy people: what if being the servant or slave means being humiliated, being insulted, or being trapped in a wrong image? Can you bear the undeserved indignity? Can you swallow your angry and forgive the opponent in that moment? Can you retain your serenity and keep your humble work?

In our first reading today, Jeremiah was in that difficult situation. People contrived a plot to destroy him by his own words. No words are neutral. Words can be deceived in different accents, tones, or contexts. How poor is Jeremiah! Even a righteous person’s reputation can be destroyed by his/her jealous adversaries.

Jeremiah’s response is this: he brings his pain to the Lord. He prayed at his most difficult moment. He found his relief from God. We know God always watches us, knows us, and loves us. God may allow evil to work and shows his greater mercy through us. When we know we are at God’s hand, we can be strong and do the right works, persistently.

So brothers and sisters, do not be afraid. Even Jesus told us on the mountain, “Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you [falsely] because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you (Matthew 5, 11-12).”