Advent Day 14

Jer. 30:12-17

For thus says the LORD: Your hurt is incurable, and your wound is grievous. There is none to uphold your cause, no medicine for your wound, no healing for you. All your lovers have forgotten you; they care nothing for you; for I have dealt you the blow of an enemy, the punishment of a merciless foe, because your guilt is great, because your sins are flagrant. Why do you cry out over your hurt? Your pain is incurable. Because your guilt is great, because your sins are flagrant, I have done these things to you. Therefore all who devour you shall be devoured, and all your foes, every one of them, shall go into captivity; those who plunder you shall be plundered, and all who prey on you I will make a prey. For I will restore health to you, and your wounds I will heal, declares the LORD, because they have called you an outcast: ‘It is Zion, for whom no one cares.’

The story of our ancient ancestors and their faithlessness is well known. Throughout the Old Testament God accuses them of pursuing “other lovers.” They seek out places of refuge and life only to be tossed aside and neglected.

In this passage God is sort of saying, “well, duh! This is what happens!” But what is most astonishing is that in the same breath God promises to restore.

This is the full character of God on display. Deep and incomprehensible grace.

Where do you most feel his grace at work in your life today?

Prayer
Gracious and forgiving father, I have often chosen to pursue other lovers. It always hurts. Help me to feel the depth of your grace. Bind my wandering heart to thee!

Today’s ADVENTure says:
Light a candle & pray for the electoral college