Jeremiah 33:14-16 (NRSV)
Read Jeremiah 33:14-16 on biblegateway.com
Verse 14The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. Verse 15In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. Verse 16In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is the name by which it will be called: "The Lord is our righteousness."
Devotion
Jeremiah’s writings were filled with mood swings. He was reluctant to proclaim the word of the Lord to an unbelieving and disobedient generation. His mission included great suffering. He even accused God of deceiving him.
Today’s reading, though, is filled with hope and joy. In the Hebrew text, the word “promise” reads “the good word.” We also have a good word to live by and share. Two words stand out in this pericope: “justice” and “righteousness.” They are key words in the biblical proclamation. They are also words for us to use when proclaiming the message of the Lord.
The renewed people of God are promised that the “Lord is our righteousness.” Jesus Christ is our righteousness, so we can experience the joy of our salvation.
Prayer
Gracious Lord, fill our hearts with confidence that your righteousness covers our sins, so that with joyful hearts we can bless your name and continually praise you, through Christ our Lord. Amen.