A prophet’s calling is to declare the Word of the LORD. There’s no spin, no beating around the bush, and no dressing it up! For that reason, a prophet required great courage because his message was often unwelcome and he was mistreated or even killed for his words. In today’s readings we hear what Jeremiah endured for calling Israel to repent of her sins. Jesus laments over Jerusalem’s unwillingness to turn back to God, and he predicts his coming death on the cross. Lord, open our ears and our hearts to listen to the full counsel of Your Word!