In Old Testament terms, idolatry - infidelity to God - was the worst sin. Every time Israel lapsed into idolatry and chased after false gods, disaster was not far behind. Baruch informs Israel that they are experiencing pain and struggle because of their bad choices and infidelity. At the same time, he reassures them - it will not last forever, and they will be restored to their former glory. The one message he has for them is 'take courage' - and those words are directed to us today.

The seventy-two were amazed at the great power they had been given by Jesus. They cast out demons, healed the sick, and proclaimed that the Kingdom of God had come near. This was to prepare their hearts and minds for the new world that Jesus was bringing to them. Jesus saw Satan 'fall like lightning' - in other words, Satan was losing his grip on the world. Jesus is always victorious over evil. We have to remember this - many Christians talk as if Satan were in charge of the world. We should not blame Satan for our own weakness and sin. Just the same, Jesus told them not to be too captivated by the power they had - it was more important that their names were written in the Book of Life and were on the right side in this cosmic battle. May our names be written in this Book.