Prophets often appear as threatening figures, men who warn about disasters to come. This is especially true of Jeremiah who is thought to be the author of the Book of Lamentations. In several European languages, any long and bitter lament or criticism of society and its low standard of morality is named after Jeremiah.

Yet, as always, we must read the bible carefully and in its entirety and complexity. Then we will understand and appreciate that in the midst of the prophet's words of doom there is always a hope. We see that hope very clearly in today's first reading, where Jeremiah brings God's promise to the people: "I will raise up a righteous descendant to David." The prophet then continues to give a description of this wonderful king. He starts off this promise with the words "the days are coming." This invites us to consider that, in God's providence, evil will not finally triumph over God's goodness, mercy and love. God fulfilled this promise of a wonderful king in Jesus. Thus, during this special period of preparation for Christmas which began yesterday, the liturgy speaks in many ways about that hope which Jesus brought us so that we may live our lives in faith, hope and love.