June 28
Divine Service
Jeremiah 29: 11
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Where are we in the Bible?
The background to Jeremiah 29 is found in 2 Kings 24:8-17. Judah’s road to exile unfolds in uneasy steps: King Jehoiakim first submits to Babylon, then rebels (2 Kings 24:1), and soon dies as judgment approaches. His son Jehoiachin reigns only briefly before being taken into exile - along with many others (2 Kings 24:8–17, Jeremiah 29:2). Meanwhile, both in Jerusalem and in Babylon, voices rise promising a quick return and urging rebellion (Jeremiah 27–29), refusing to see the exile as part of God’s plan.
But Jeremiah speaks a gentler, constant truth to the exiles: settle, build, plant, and trust the Lord (Jeremiah 29:4–7). Even there, in a foreign land, God is at work—and in time, He will fulfill His promise to bring His people home and give them a future filled with hope (Jeremiah 29:10–14).
We are also displaced. We were first created to live an eternal paradise with God. An old hymn reminds us, “I’m but a stranger here, heaven is my home.” This applies to both the living and dead; both are displaced, existing in a world or realm that is not as it should be (See Thoughts of peace for both the living and the dead in the DSG). In this way, Jeremiah’s message speaks to us as well. How shall we live? The prophet encourages the Israelites (and us) to exercise patience, contribute positively to their society, and hold on to the promises of God.
Summary:
In a world of waiting and displacement, Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that as we patiently endure, live as a blessing where we are, and trust God’s faithful promises, He is already at work guiding us toward our promised and hoped for future filled with His peace. We seek peace through patience, presence, and promise, trusting that God remains faithful even in the face of injustice, sin, and suffering.
Foundation Reading
Scripture: Jeremiah 29
Catechism: 1.1.2