There is a significant difference between being trusting and being naïve. Jeremiah seems to have still been a blend of both naiveté and trust. Not having attained complete trust in God (and remaining somewhat naïve) he was taken by surprise at the treachery of his enemies—despite acknowledging that the Lord had informed him of their plot. And so whereas he likened himself to a trusting lamb led to the slaughter, this was perhaps more naiveté than trust. Perhaps had naiveté not caused his surprise at his enemies’ malice, he might have foreseen their treachery and trusted in God’s wisdom and justice, rather than seek vengeance on his persecutors. And so the lesson for us, perhaps, is one Jesus taught his disciples: Be as cunning as serpents and yet gentle as doves. Being naïve may be a precursor to trust but it is seldom, if ever, authentically virtuous, whereas complete trust in God isn’t perfected until it excludes seeking vengeance on one’s enemies.
Calvin Dube says
Thank you for these words of Wisdom Fr. Joseph! I was reminded that even in difficult times we must sustain our faith through our trust in God. I walk in a wooded area every day! For me, it’s truly the only place to feel God’s Presence!