Today's first reading is an indication of what our reaction should be during the time of any serious adversity. In this instance, Judah was suffering from war and drought. Human nature being what it is, it is not inconceivable that some of the people simply gave up on God. But not Jeremiah. Others probably decided that someone other than themselves was to blame for the calamity and were indignant that in their innocence they had to suffer. But not Jeremiah. Still others believed that they had better find someone other than God to help them. But not Jeremiah.

In Jeremiah's prayer we can see several elements which are important to us when things go wrong. Jeremiah's first thought was to turn to God. It is true that he queried God as to why such terrible things were happening. But his questions reveal that he believed that God is in charge and therefore is not to be abandoned. Secondly, he admits that he and the people are far from perfect. He says, "We recognize, O Lord, that we have sinned against you." He does not pretend to be the innocent person who is treated unjustly. Finally he recognizes that God alone is the source of hope as he cries out, "Is it not you alone, O Lord, our God, to whom we look?" There is still one more element suggested by the Gospel. We must be patient. God in His own time and in a manner best for us will remove the weeds from our lives. We must be patient as we await God's action.