I will raise up shepherds over them who will shepherd them.
Jeremiah 23:4
When it came to hope, Judah's shelves were bare. Jeremiah promised restoration from exile and better leaders. Jeremiah planted hope by envisioning one who would come as "a righteous Branch" (v.5) of David.
God did not view ancient Judah as worthless. God does not view us as hopeless and worthless. We are, by grace, God's children. We are baptized, called, and gifted with hope. Hope comes as a gift of grace. Hope comforts. Hope energizes. Hope thrives on the suspense of God's next visit. Martin Luther said that everything that is done in the world is done by hope. Hope expects God's future with anticipation.
God of grace, we thank you for leading us to be
shepherds of hope for those who hunger.
Re-energize our hearts with new anticipation
and hope of your coming. In Jesus' name, Amen.
(Excerpts taken from "Christ in Our Home", 7/19/12, written by Arley K. Fadness, a retired ELCA pastor living in Custer, SD.)
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