Jeremiah 33:12-16

Thus says the Lord of hosts: In this place that is waste, without human beings or animals, and in all its towns there shall again be pasture for shepherds resting their flocks. In the towns of the hill country, of the Shephelah, and of the Negeb, in the land of Benjamin, the places around Jerusalem, and in the towns of Judah, flocks shall again pass under the hands of the one who counts them, says the Lord. 

The Righteous Branch and the Covenant with David

The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfil the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. 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 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.’

The prophet Jeremiah forsees a day when the devastation visited on the land by war will be a thing of the past and prosperity will return to the people of Israel. He says God will send a descendant of King David to lead the people and restore justice. When I read these words of hope, I pray that God will do the same for us. Think of all the countries devastated by war and the soldiers and civilians killed in those conflicts. God has sent us Jesus Christ. He will lead us into a time of peace and renewed prosperity. But we have to be willing to accept his leadership. How does Christ lead your life? Do you pray daily for peace? Do you pray for those devastated by war. Pray that the Holy Spirit will guide our leaders. Set an example for others by the example of faith that you set. Do not be ashamed to proclaim your faith in God.