Reflections on change: Exile and hope

Read:  Jeremiah chapter 29 verses 4 to 14

Think: The people of Jerusalem had been invaded, conquered and dragged into exile by the Babylonians. Cut off from their homeland and places of worship, it must have felt that God had abandoned them. Jeremiah writes to offer hope that this isn't the case. Whatever their past, the future is bright.

In the meantime, they are to settle down and be patient. Are there changes you are hoping for, a restoration of places or relationships? Does this passage encourage you? Are there things you could be doing to bring that change about?

Pray: Pray for those forced to leave their homes because of war and political upheaval, and especially for refugees in our own communities. Are there ways you could offer practical help?