7 October 2023

Take courage, my children, and cry to God,
for you will be remembered by the one who brought this upon you.
For just as you were disposed to go astray from God,
return with tenfold zeal to seek him.
For the one who brought these calamities upon you
will bring you everlasting joy with your salvation.
From Baruch 4:5-12,27-29, NRSV

In yesterday’s reading we heard Baruch expressing the sorrow and shame of the Jews for their sins and failure to follow in God’s ways. In today’s reading, we hear words of hope and promise. The words spoken by Jerusalem are put into the mouth of a widowed mother who weeps for her children and what has befallen them. The words show great tenderness and concern but also confidence that her children will not be forgotten by God and will be rescued. For a people so weighed down by shame and suffering, these tender words of the promise of God’s love must have been very welcome.

• • Why do you think the writer chose the image of a widowed mother to express God’s love?
  • When have you needed the tender love of God?

Give thanks for the times when you have felt God’s mercy and compassion.