During my seminary class on Monday night, we read through Jeremiah 29 as part of our section on understanding biblical prophecy. Most Christians like to skip verses 1-10 and go straight for the "I know the plans I have for you..." bumper-sticker faith slogan. However, in the preceding verses, God is telling His people through Jeremiah, that they are going to be in exile a long time and that while they are there, they are to "build houses...live in them...plant gardens...make babies...seek the welfare of the city and pray to God its behalf." It seems that over the years, the people of God had forgotten their charter to be a light among the nations. God is using this exile to force them into that mission.
I think we would be wise to do the same in our own cities, towns and states. Often we, those who are disciples of Christ, want to separate from society and flee to the safety of our congregations and communities. Here it seems that God would rather we be in our contexts, seeking the welfare of the places we live; bringing the light of the gospel to bear on the darkness.
In the meantime...
During my seminary class on Monday night, we read through Jeremiah 29 as part of our section on understanding biblical prophecy. Most Christians like to skip verses 1-10 and go straight for the "I know the plans I have for you..." bumper-sticker faith slogan. However, in the preceding verses, God is telling His people through Jeremiah, that they are going to be in exile a long time and that while they are there, they are to "build houses...live in them...plant gardens...make babies...seek the welfare of the city and pray to God its behalf." It seems that over the years, the people of God had forgotten their charter to be a light among the nations. God is using this exile to force them into that mission.
I think we would be wise to do the same in our own cities, towns and states. Often we, those who are disciples of Christ, want to separate from society and flee to the safety of our congregations and communities. Here it seems that God would rather we be in our contexts, seeking the welfare of the places we live; bringing the light of the gospel to bear on the darkness.