Excerpt from Jeremiah 7:27-34

"And they go on building the high places of Topheth, which is in the valley of the son of Hinnom, to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire - which I did not command, nor did it come into my mind."

Reflection by Quinn G. Caldwell

As of this writing, the United States has been at war in Afghanistan for 104 months.  It is the longest war in United States' history.  By comparison, U.S. involvement in Vietnam lasted 103 months.  Over 1,100 Americans have died in the conflict; no one knows how many others have perished as well.

In today's passage, Jeremiah expresses God's displeasure at the practice of human sacrifice, which at least some in his day were apparently indulging in.  He makes it clear that God is categorically against the practice, and further, that any 'god' that asks for it is in fact no god at all.

On the other hand, we know that God is very much in favor of self-sacrifice, of pouring one's own life out on behalf of those in need.  After all, that's exactly what God did in Jesus Christ, isn't it'

104 months into the longest war in our nation's history seems like a good time to stop and take stock of what's going on.  Is this a story about good people pouring themselves out in noble and self-giving ways for others, a story about the quest for freedom, security, a better life'  Or is it a story about sacrificing our sons and daughters on the altar of a god that is no god'

Prayer

Holy One, give me the grace to pour myself out for any cause that is pleasing to you, and to never sacrifice a son or daughter for anything at all.  Amen. 

About the Author Quinn G. Caldwell is Associate Minister of Old South Church in Boston, Massachusetts.