Scripture

“See, I am going to bring them from the land of the north, and gather them from the farthest parts of the earth, among them the blind and the lame, those with child and those in labor, together; a great company, they shall return here.” Jeremiah 31:8

Reflections

Can you think of any people you have been separated from, people you wish were nearer?  A friend who has moved away?  A beloved family member who has passed from this life?  Someone who, for some reason, you’ve lost contact with?

The prophet Jeremiah paints a picture of a reunion of sorts.  There were people living in Judah and Israel whose children, parents, brothers and sisters, friends, neighbors, extended families, and neighboring tribes had been taken from them.  First, it was by Assyria and then Babylon.  Those who were deported from their homeland were also separated from their loved ones.  We can only imagine the degree of grief and loss and discouragement.

But then we hear a command from the Lord, “Sing aloud with gladness”.  A homecoming is going to happen.  You will not be separated forever.  The Lord God will gather his own.

As people of faith, we trust that we will be reunited with our brothers and sisters in the faith.  Sadness, grief, and loss will be eclipsed by God’s heavenly reunion.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for the special people in my life that I will someday see again.  Thank you for the promise that I will be with you forever.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Jeremiah 31:7-9