October 19

OT -- Jeremiah 33:1-34:22
What I have been pondering today is why Jeremiah, Mr. Doom and Gloom, felt the need to prophesy hope to the folks in Judah. It wasn't as if Jeremiah was a court favorite -- he never seemed to mind that he was in stocks, imprisoned, confined -- but he keeps repeating over and over again that God will redeem the people of Judah. Not anytime soon, mind you, but He WILL redeem them.
So, how would this have been hopeful to the folks who were listening to him? They wouldn't see redemption, their children wouldn't, possibly not even grandchildren. Why even bother with the hope?

It might interest you to know that my old friend, the sage Rashi has little to say about Jeremiah. Click here if you want to read some of it online. I was hopeful that he would illuminate me on this subject.
In looking at my study Bible, the commentary on chapter 29 says this:

"Does the Lord know the plans for us, too?
Yes, but it is important to observe the context in which these particular promises were given before assuming that they are personally addressed to us. These promises come to the discouraged and disillusioned exiles in Babylon in a letter written by the prophet Jeremiah. this letter served as a reality check to help the people from Judah face the fact that they would not be returning home any time soon. though their captivity was due to their own sins, the Lord graciously called them to repent and seek him despite their predicament. The Lord encouraged them by declaring that he knew the plans he had for them: prosperity instead of harm, plus hope and a future.
Believers today my be encouraged by this verse, especially in difficult times, because God does not forget his people despite appearances to the contrary."

I guess in the long run, Babylon was the Hope. The Jews certainly prospered there. Much of the Bible was codified and written and the system for teaching Jewish boys (the synagogue) was developed there. While some did return when Cyrus the Persian allowed them to go back to Judah, most did not.

I also think the lesson in Jeremiah, for me, tonight, is that you HAVE to include hope or what is the point?