24 October 2021

For thus says the Lord:
Sing aloud with gladness for Jacob,
and raise shouts for the chief of the nations;
proclaim, give praise, and say,
‘Save, O Lord, your people,
the remnant of Israel.’

From Jeremiah 31:7-9, NRSV

This prophecy from Jeremiah must have been hard for many of the people of Israel to accept. At the time of this prophecy, the destruction of Jerusalem was imminent and the people were to be sent into a long period of captivity. However, God – through Jeremiah – wants to hold out the promise of hope that Israel is still his beloved “first born” and that they are not abandoned. It would be many years before the “remnant” – those who remained faithful throughout a time of great suffering and trial – would be comforted and led back to Jerusalem. In their darkest days, this promise sustained these people in their faith and gave them hope.

• • What do you think it meant to the people of Israel to be described as the Lord’s “first-born”?
  • Where can we look for hope in times of difficulty or disaster?

Pray for those in need of hope.