Monday May 1, 2006

Text for the Day -- Jeremiah 30:8-11
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On that day, says the Lord of hosts, I will break the yoke from off
his neck, and I will burst his bonds, and strangers shall no more
make a servant of him. But they shall serve the Lord their God and
David their king, whom I will raise up for them.

But as for you, have no fear, my servant Jacob, says the Lord,
and do not be dismayed, O Israel;
for I am going to save you from far away,
and your offspring from the land of their captivity.
Jacob shall return and have quiet and ease,
and no one shall make him afraid.
For I am with you, says the Lord, to save you;
I will make an end of all the nations
among which I scattered you,
but of you I will not make an end.
I will chastise you in just measure,
and I will by no means leave you unpunished.

Devotional
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God judges and God restores. This was an never-ending rhythm to
Israel's relationship with God. They, as we, had a hard time staying
on track with God. There is a relestless habit that infects us
humans, so we stray to other gods of all sorts. We fail to live in
the justice, love and peace that God has provided for us in the
relationship we have with God. But, God has this bent toward
faithfulness in dealing with us. Again and again, God reaches out in
mercy and forgiveness, calling us home to his love.

Prayer
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Strengthen my walk in our relationship, O God. Amen