These are the words of the letter that the prophet Jeremiah sent from Jerusalem to the remaining elders among the exiles, and to the priests, the prophets, and all the people, whom Nebuchadnezzar had taken into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. This was after King Jeconiah, and the queen mother, the court officials, the leaders of Judah and Jerusalem, the artisans, and the smiths had departed from Jerusalem. —Jeremiah 29:1-2
“We exist to see Indianapolis made new”
“Return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; rend your hearts and not your clothing. Return to the Lord, your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger,and abounding in steadfast love” —Joel 2:12-13
The Spirit breathes on our brokenness
In a city of brokenness, the world does not need more voices, it needs more hands and feet. —2 Chronicles 36.14-16; Jeremiah 22.24-27
“Instead of repentance and a renewed understanding of their relationship to Yahweh, they are filled with false hope about a quick end to this tragedy. They still don’t get it.” —Walter Kaiser
God always has a plan
“taken into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon.” —Jeremiah 29:1
God’s plan always involves his Spirit.
God’s Spirit had a plan and made a way. —Ephesians 2:19-22 The Message
Jesus, the chief cornerstone of NCC is quite at home with your brokenness—our brokenness.
Invitation to Rest in Lent
• 2 Chronicles 36.21; 2 Chronicles 7.14 NLT
If during this Lenten season, we can humbling submit to God, to surrender to his rest—he will purify us as people.
• Matthew 7:24-25
God Keeps his promise to build his house, that is his Church.
• Hebrews 12:28-29
Community Group Guide:
Read Jeremiah 29.1-2
Questions:
What are some words that stand out to you? What are you drawn into?
How is rest for you in this season?
Where in your life is the Lord inviting you to purification?
Looking back at the past two years, what do you think is the great lesson the Lord has taught you?
Read Matt 7:24-27—what is Jesus you to directly? To our Church?
Resources: Wisdom From Babylon by Gordon T. Smith
To Prepare for next week:
Building, Planting, and Pursuing; Jeremiah 29:4-7