The first two readings show two people, Jeremiah and the Psalmist, in dire straits. Jeremiah is aware that his adversaries are "digging a pit" for him (v 20). The Psalmist is aware of the hidden "snares" of his enemies as they plot together against him, as they plan to take his life (v 13). However, what is the response of both of them?

Jeremiah prays to God and says, "Remember how I stood in Your presence to plead on their behalf, to turn Your wrath away from them" (v 20). He pleaded to God for them, hoping that God will not be angry with them, his enemies. The Psalmist surrenders himself entirely to God. He says, "Into Your hands, I commend my spirit. It is You Who will redeem me, Lord" (v 5). And more than that, the Psalmist shows his complete confidence in God by saying, "But as for me, I trust in You, Lord, I say: 'You are my God. My life is in Your hands'" (Ps 31: 14-15).

Let us remember the heroic examples of Jeremiah and the Psalmist when we find ourselves in impossible situations in our lives. Let us not forget to pray for our enemies. Let us also learn to entrust ourselves to God, who knows all that we are going through at all times. God will answer our prayers in God's time, in God's way.