by:
09/04/2024
0
“The kings of the earth did not believe, nor did any of the peoples of the world, that enemies and foes could enter the gates of Jerusalem” (4:12). The beauty and joy of Jerusalem had been destroyed, “and it happened because of the sins of her prophets” and people (4:13). Because the Israelites took their God-given security for granted, they were shocked when their idolatry opened the door to destruction. The Babylonians’ two-year siege of the city ended with unspeakable violence (4:10).
“Restore us to yourself, Lord, that we may return” (5:21). Turning away from God to chase the world’s idols risks the destruction of all that is precious to us (John 10:10). But through Christ, God offers forgiveness and to restore the ruins.