“Jeremiah called Baruch the son of Neriah; and Baruch wrote scroll of a book, at the instruction of Jeremiah, all the words of the Lord which He had spoken to him” (Jeremiah 36:4).
Administrative Professionals’ Day is an unofficial holiday observed in various countries of the world to honour the work of administrative professionals, secretaries, assistants, and receptionists. In North America it is celebrated the last full week of April. It began in 1952 as National Secretaries Week and has gone through a few name changes over the years. Other titles for these positions include office clerk, office manager, staff assistant, and executive assistant.
The work of an administrative professional is important to the success of any organization. They can prepare documents, coordinate meetings, maintain files, plan special events, purchase office supplies, lead project teams, conduct research, train employees, manage websites, and take down dictation. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that in 2014, there were 3.9 million administrative assistants in the country.
Jeremiah had an administrative assistant. Baruch was a scribe, or secretary, for the prophet of God. The son of Neriah and a member of a prominent Jewish family, he wrote down Jeremiah’s prophecies of destruction from the prophet’s dictation. He then read the condemning words in the temple and eventually to the king himself. When King Jehoiakim heard the words, he burned the scroll. Baruch and Jeremiah hid from the king and were commanded by God to make a new copy, which they did.
Some people question the historicity of Bible characters, including Baruch. In 1975, a clay inscription was discovered appearing to have the seal of Baruch. The inscription, written in ancient Hebrew, reads, “[Belonging] to Barchyahu, son of Neriyahu, the scribe.” Many archaeologists believe the ancient document, stamped with an oval seal, belonged to Jeremiah’s secretary.
Baruch was a brave man to stand before the rebellious king of Judah and read the message of warning to the stubborn ruler who accused the scribe and the prophet of conspiring against God’s people. Baruch’s name means “blessed” and is appropriate for all who are willing to do the will of the Lord, including an administrative assistant.
Lord, in whatever position You call me, may my work faithfully honour You.
