Jeremiah 23 - Day 673 (link to reading)
Scripture: Jeremiah 23:1-6 Commentary (workingpreacher.org): The spotlight of judgment is focused on “the shepherds.” While actual shepherds were among the poor and lowly in ancient Near Eastern societies, “shepherd” was also a term used to refer to a king. It is kings — specifically the kings of Judah — who are the objects of judgment in Jeremiah 23:1. Shepherds are responsible for protecting and providing sustenance for their flocks, keeping peace within the flock, defending against attackers, searching for sheep that have gone astray, and rescuing those who are in danger. The shepherd, and by analogy the king, is expected to act for the well-being of the sheep. Yet the opening verse of Jeremiah 23 accuses the shepherds of destroying and scattering God’s sheep!...It is important to recognize two dimensions of this promise. First, God promises to continue working through the ages to raise up shepherds who will “deal wisely and …execute justice and righteousness in the land” (Jeremiah 23:5). And secondly, God promises a fullness of righteousness reigning through Jesus Christ, the good shepherd for us all. Application: Jesus modeled for us the qualities of a good shepherd. Everyone, in some capacity, has the responsibility to care for (shepherd) another person. Care for others as Jesus did. Prayer: The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.. Comments are closed.
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January 2024
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