Anything you say may be used

In today’s first reading (Jer 18:18-20), the prophet Jeremiah faces opposition that is particularly insidious:

"Come, let us contrive a plot against Jeremiah….
let us destroy him by his own tongue;
let us carefully note his every word."

This is a good reminder for us to exercise due care in the words we use.

On the other hand, it is also a good reminder that if we choose to do and say what is right, we will be opposed, even to the point of being ridiculed and our words twisted against us.

And yet we must act, we must speak,
for our own salvation,
for the good of those around us (even those who oppose us),
for the love of Jesus
and for the greater glory of God.