Today's Passage:  Jeremiah 30-31

These had to be sweet words for Jeremiah to hear after hearing about all the destruction and captivity that Israel would face.  Finally, God tells him that there will be a day of restoration.  Even though they will be scattered, God will return them to Him.  Even though there is hurt, God will bring healing.  Even though it is not deserved, God will give mercy and welcome back the people as they turn to Him.

We know from scripture and historical records that all these things will happen for Israel.  Their long pain will come to an end, and once again they will dwell in the land of God.  When that relationship is restored, it will be sweet...both for the Father and for His children who have returned home.

I encourage you to read this passage again, and this time, read it as if God is telling you what happens when you repented from your sin.  Even though you were in captivity, God's mercy brings about rescue.  Once again we dwell with Him...His Spirit lives within us!  Even though it is not deserved, through Jesus Christ we become a child of God.

No wonder Jeremiah woke up with a smile on his face...we should be smiling as well!