The 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. 15 In 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.
‘In those days and at that time
I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David’s line;
he will do what is just and right in the land.’ “
Way back in the 1970’s we were newlywed and working as house parents at a children’s home in Monticello, AR. Communication to our parents in Fayetteville was by handwritten letter or occasional long distance phone call. Months went by. When we were able to take a few days off, we decided to surprise our folks and drive home without giving them notice. It was a drive of over 5 hours at the national speed limit of 50 mph. What joy there was when we showed up on their doorsteps!
The arrival was welcome, but later, my mom admitted that she really liked the anticipation of our visits. She enjoyed the preparation and feelings of expectation that would come as she looked forward to seeing us. The time of our visit seemed to be extended with the promise of things to come.
Jeremiah is doing the early notification of magnificent things to come. God is not going to spring a surprise visit. This is a huge announcement of God’s way coming to earth—a righteous Branch. The exact time is not given so we are encouraged to do internal preparation, careful study, joyful waiting. This ancient promise gives hope to people in need of heavenly communication. No matter how the day is going or what events are causing turmoil, we have the Holy Spirit to brighten our earthly travels. There are things we don’t know about God’s plans and there are often surprises, but the love and grace of Jesus Christ is with us always.
Thank you, Lord, for notification of your gracious promise so that we can look to the future with confidence and hope for heavenly peace.
Contributed by Carol Van Scyoc