Observation: After declaring that he will make Jeremiah a prophet to Judah, the very first vision God gives Jeremiah is this ... an almond branch. It does not seem like much, and it is not intended to be pronounced to the people or king or priests. Perhaps it was a test to ensure Jeremiah would accurately state what God shows him without embellishment or personal interpretation. Or perhaps it was a way to encouraging Jeremiah by showing him that he could see and understand God by giving him this symbol of a branch which assuredly bears nuts as the same as the Lord who - when he speaks his word - assuredly makes it come true.
In either way, the Lord was preparing Jeremiah. He told him what he wanted, gave him assurances of his ability, then showed him he could do it. He didn't send him right away with a complex message, but rather started with a small vision and confirmed his success.
Application: The Lord has prepared me for the work he would have me do. Maybe the overall mission wasn't described as clearly as it was to Jeremiah, but I can know that he has a plan for my service to him, and has trained me to do through small successes.
I admit I am not sure what that work is or how I can serve the Lord and his people. I am not sure what I have really been trained to do. But I have faith that the work is before me, and I still have a mission - given by the Lord - ahead of me in life.
Like Jeremiah, I hope I am worthy and able and prepared.
Prayer: Lord, thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. May I do your will today and every day. Amen.
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