PODCAST

I Will Gather Them

March 19th, 2023

Jeremiah 32:33-41

Jeremiah 32 begins by describing the citizens of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem who had turned their backs on God. They were people who had not listened and would not receive instruction. They had done abominable things and been sent into exile for a time. But then God gathers them, settles them in safety, claims them, gives them a single heart and goal, and makes a covenant with them. God rejoices in their restoration.

Some of us have been praying for family members and beloved friends who have been exiled for many years. We might even describe our loved ones, like God’s people in Jeremiah 32, as those who “turned their backs [on God] . . . [who] would not listen or respond to discipline” (v. 33). But like the prophet Samuel, let us assert, “far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you” (1 Samuel 12:23).  Take courage knowing our God never gives up, “I will surely gather them…I will bring them back…I will be their God” (vv. 37-38).

Author: Vicki Copp