Reading: Jeremiah 5:1 – 8:3

Scripture

While you were doing all these things, declares the Lord, I spoke to you again and again, but you did not listen; I called you, but you did not answer. Therefore, what I did to Shiloh I will now do to the house that bears my Name, the temple you trust in, the place I gave to you and your fathers. I will thrust you from my presence, just as I did all your brothers, the people of Ephraim.’ Jeremiah 7:13-15 (NIV)

Observations

God always meant for us to be in His presence. He meant to speak to us and have us listen. He meant to call to us and have us answer. He meant to commune with us, enjoying our closeness as we enjoyed his. God knew that we would reject him and instead pursue things that are futile. Yet ultimately, his pleasure was to show us the depths of his love and grace by wooing us back to himself through Jesus. His was and is the ultimate act of love.

Application

From the beginning of his Word to the end, God reveals his desire for closeness with me. To draw near to God is a conscious intentional action. It includes setting time aside to seek him and to listen. “Lord, what do you want to say to me today? What do you want me to know?” God has given me choice, and the opportunity to truly know his presence. I seek it with all my heart.

Prayer

Father, I thank you for your presence. I choose to draw near to you. I gladly open my ears and my heart to you. Lord, I am listening. May I be a “house that bears your Name”, and may I always bring pleasure to you as I enjoy the riches of your kindness and grace.