July 12

Introduction

Jeremiah 31:15–22: Today’s reading is a haunting and beautiful poem that begins with a reference to Rachel crying for her children. Rachel was one of Jacob’s wives, the mother of Joseph and Benjamin, and the grandmother of Joseph’s son Ephraim. The name Ephraim is often used to refer to the entire Northern Kingdom because it was the largest tribe. Rachel was buried near Ramah, a village north of Jerusalem, now known as Bethlehem (see Genesis 35:16–21). As a grieving mother, she symbolizes a nation that has lost her children; but God offers words of comfort and hope, with the assurance that all the nation’s children will return home.

Today’s Key Verse: Jeremiah 31:20

[The LORD says:] “Israel, you are my dearest child, the one I love best. Whenever I mention your name, I think of you with love. My heart goes out to you; I will be merciful.”

Reflect

What words of comfort and hope does the LORD offer (verses 16–17)? What do the people of Israel confess (verses 18–19)? What is the LORD’s response (verses 20–22)? In what ways have you experienced God’s mercy?

Pray

God of love and mercy, in you I place my hope and trust. Keep me close to you as I seek to follow your teachings and serve you faithfully. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Jeremiah 31:23–40: The prophet Jeremiah describes God’s new covenant with the people.