This week on the podcast we talk about how God gave power and authority to King Cyrus, even though he was a Gentile. Through Cyrus the Isrealites were able to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. God was able to use Cyrus as a tool, even though he was not the tool that was preferred or expected. In our lives it is good to contemplate how God is using imperfect people, maybe even strange authority, to bring about His will.

 This week we talk about the raw reality that the Prophet Jeremiah expresses in the reading. Being a faithful servant to the Lord is extremely difficult. It always has been. We won't always understand what God is doing, when we are confused we might even try to go against His will. Discernment and prayer for God's will even in confusion is necessary

 This week on the Podcast we talk about the authority given to flawed humans by God. How abusing that Authority will bring punishment upon yourself and the people you lead. The other side is to remember the humanity of the authority, and understand the requirement to charitably follow the lead. As long as that lead is not sinful. God has a plan in the midst of corruption.