Jeremiah 22:1-30

Thursday, February 16^th 2017

GILEAD, LEBANON, A RING ON THE HAND

key verse 6

God now delivers the death sentence to the kings of Israel. He addresses three kings in particular : Shallum, Jehoiakim and Coniah.

1. You are like Gilead to me (1-9)

Before the house of Judah, Jeremiah says that if the king practices justice, people will always pass by his doors, meaning there will aways be kings in this place. Yet, if justice is not practiced, no one will pass by. Their children will be taken away, and no offspring will sit on the throne (30). The people are a precious object, like the balm in Gilead. They are like the cedars of Lebanon, though they will be cut down and burned. This disaster falls because they have abandoned God for idols. Shallum will be sent to Egypt and die there (12).

      2. The cause of destruction (11-18)

The cause of all these calamities is selfishness (17). The king must practice equity, but he cripples the people for his own gain in order to build houses, palaces and gardens. Many kings forget their responsibility and live like misers. Thus, Jehoaikim's grave will be shared with that of a donkey. The cedars of Lebanon, the fat flocks and the oaks of Bashan to the east of the Jordan represent opulence and carefreeness. Yet the moment of pain will strike suddenly.

      3. Land, hear the word of the Lord (29)

He will take away the glory of the last king, Coniah. He will be deported to Babylon. Like taking a signet ring off a finger, God will take off the king and send him to where there is no return. No descendant will rule again (30).

Prayer: Lord, help me to abandon my idols and serve you alone. Help me to listen to your word and love others.

Bottom line: where is the balm in Gilead?