Chapter 19 of Jeremiah concludes a section of Jeremiah spelling out what is in store for Judah as the result of their idolatry and failure to change and forsake their idolatrous ways. He will continue to prophesy, and up to now his focus has primarily been on the people and leaders together.
The description turns graphic, describing cannibalism that will occur, along with all the horror of the imminent Babylonian siege. Verse 8, though, in my view brings about the worst consequence of their sin. "I will also make this city a desolation and an object of hissing; everyone who passes by it will be astonished and hiss because of all its disasters."
Israel and Judah, even before the kingdoms were split, were to be a light to those outside of their faith. Simeon called Jesus a light to lighten the Gentiles, and God's people have always been expected to be a positive influence to the people and nations around them. Now, as a result of generations of following idols and other objects of their affection, Judah would be seen by travelers, not as a region of hope, but as one of disaster and destruction.
Just like the clay pot that Jeremiah smashes, God could no longer use Judah; they had become worthless, just as the pot that cannot be repaired after being smashed. The imagery was crystal clear to those who saw and heard Jeremiah.
I read these types of passages and pray for the church. We are to be the light of hope to this horrific and dark world. I wonder what "passers-by" think of when they see the church today. Do they recognize the church? Do we present the proper image of God to them? Do we reverently fear Him, and does our reverence and honor show in our lives?
Pray with me this week as we enter "Passion Week", when we should see great opportunities to share the light we know to be Jesus Christ.
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