Chapter 23 – Promise of Better Days

This chapter is one where the strains of homecoming begin to emerge. 
The opening section of the chapter are words to the people that describe God’s goodness in gathering the nation after exile. God speaks of appointing new shepherds who will care for the people. God promises that there will not be fear or dismay and people shall not be left out or left behind. These first 8 verses have what is referred to as an “eschatological” character to them. They speak of one day, when things will be better and restored and redeemed. 
The eschatological promises are connected with the particular time and experience of the people. God says that the people will not only refer to the exodus from Egypt when they speak of exile and return. They will know the reality of return in their own lives. Jeremiah is about homecoming as well as exile. Exile will not have the last say. 

Then we get another prayer, another lament from Jeremiah. There is much in this prayer, but one line stands out in angst and power,  
“My heart is broken within me; all my bones shake.” 

Dear God; 
Let me see your character in this book. I have seen idolatry and injustice, both in this book and in my own life and actions. Let me see that redemption exists not in my achievement, but in your compassion. And for Jeremiah, I close my eyes and consider what this means that he has reached such a point where his emotional and spiritual pain is such that “all of his bones shake”. 
Help me to see also that the end of all things is in redemption in Jesus Christ. 
“Come Lord Jesus”. Amen.