Friday 28 December 2007

Background

Many scholars have argued that this chapter of Jeremiah and theone that precedes it were written as stand-alone texts in order toconsole a traumatised and grieving people.

Often termed the "Book of Consolation", it is believed to have beenwritten as a prophecy for the restoration of the old northernkingdom of Israel, which had been annexed by the Assyrians.

The previous sectionof chapter 31 concerns the prophecy that tells of a timewhen those taken in exile will return home. This is a tantalisingvision for the people and we can be sure that this was theintention of the author - to try and bring hope and cheer to thelives of the community of which he was a part.

As we approach the end of another year there will be many who willbe reflecting on the pain of loss and detachment from loved onesduring the year. The oncoming New Year naturally invites us toreflect on the events and emotions of the year about to end.

There is always a danger trying to connect ancient sacred textswith contemporary events in a way that does not do justice toeither event or time in history. And yet, despite such dangers itwould be hard not to connect this text with the many theatres ofwar that are taking place across the world.

One can only imagine the feelings of frustration, anger, pain andseparation for those loved ones awaiting news and the arrival ofthose loved ones from war conflicts across the globe.

The words of the prophet have particular resonance at this time ofthe year: "Your children shall come back to their own country"(v.17). There must be millions of people all over the world prayingthat those words will come true as we approach another year.

To Ponder

Have you, your family or friends 'lost' anyonethis year? In what ways has this 'loss' affected you? (You can usethe word 'loss' in the broadest sense to mean anyone who istemporarily or permanently separated from us.)

Imagine Jesus is stood in front of you - whatwould you say to him about your feelings regarding the person youhave 'lost'?