BE LIGHT

Jeremiah 33:14-17

The time is coming, declares the Lord, when I will fulfill my gracious promise with the people of Israel and Judah. ¹⁵ In those days and at that time, I will raise up a righteous branch from David’s line, who will do what is just and right in the land. ¹⁶ In those days, Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is what he will be called: The Lord Is Our Righteousness. ¹⁷ The Lord proclaims: David will always have one of his descendants sit on the throne of the house of Israel.

Key Verse:

In those days and at that time, I will raise up a righteous branch from David’s line, who will do what is just and right in the land. —Jeremiah 33:15

Commentary:

During Jeremiah’s imprisonment, God spoke to Jeremiah of hope and the restoration of Israel. God chose the lowest point in Jeremiah’s life to share a plan of freedom and future glory—a plan of hope. It not only provided comfort but also specific information for Jeremiah to share with the remnants of Israel to spread that hope and help people look forward. We are never alone in experiencing dark times, fear, doubt, and struggle. But we must remember to stand on the hope of God’s promises from the past, stand up to the fears of the moment, and stand in the light of hope of God’s promises for the future.

Questions to think about:

What does Matthew 1:1-17 say about the importance of Jesus’ genealogy? (fulfillment of prophecy, proof of God’s promises kept, and God’s plan through history)

Do you think God’s message of hope would have been less effective if given during a prosperous time?

How can you offer messages and actions of hope?