Jeremiah was concerned with Israel's fundamental relationship with God. God remembered how faithful the people of Israel were immediately after the Exodus. The Hebrews had been through a very difficult time and God had rescued them from the Egyptians. Initially, they were deeply grateful and faithful to the Lord; however, the people strayed from the Lord and the priests did not bring them back. Not only did the people forsake the Lord, but they even pursued a broken way of life that would bring them nothing of value. It is common for us to be faithful to the Lord during times of difficulty, times when we feel that our backs are against the wall, desperate times. But what do we do when the crisis passes? Do we remain close to the Lord or do we drift away until the next difficulty comes? Gratitude will keep us close to our Lord.

Jesus' disciples were puzzled and asked him why he spoke to the people in parables. Jesus responded that Isaiah had prophesied what was happening then - the hearts of the people had grown dull and they could not understand. Jesus recognized that the disciples, despite their fear and doubt, had the potential of great faith. They desired to understand and believe and that desire which was burning in their hearts would bring them knowledge and understanding of Jesus' message. The disciples were blessed. Are we open to understanding Jesus' message?