they kindled the fire

Lamentations 4:11-13 (JDV)

Lamentations 4:11 Yahveh has exhausted his wrath, poured out his burning anger; he has ignited a fire in Zion, and it has consumed her foundations.
Lamentations 4:12 The kings of the land and all the world’s inhabitants did not believe that an enemy or adversary could enter Jerusalem’s gates.
Lamentations 4:13 Yet it happened because of the sins of her prophets and the iniquities of her priests, who shed the blood of the righteous within her.

they kindled the fire

The prophets and priests had a divine commission to lead and protect the people. Their sins removed the barrier of protection from the people and kindled the fire that God ignited in Zion. Even the inhabitants and kings of other lands did not believe it possible that Jerusalem could experience such defeat and invasion. It all happened because those in authority failed to defend the innocent.

Oh Father, give us leaders who have the courage to protect the righteous and condemn the wicked.