by Jill Ice
Jeremiah 51 repeats the same old story. The new king – in
this case, Zedekiah - hadn’t learned from history. He “did what was evil in the
sight of the Lord” (verse two) and subsequently was cast out of the presence of
the Lord (verse three).
The most heart-breaking fruit of sin is on display here
because of Zedekiah’s choice - separation
from God.
But your iniquities have made a separation
between you and your God,
and your sins have hidden his face from you
so that he does not hear.
between you and your God,
and your sins have hidden his face from you
so that he does not hear.
Isaiah 59:2
When we sin we deliberately drive a stake in our
relationship with God. We turn from sweet trust, communion with and dependence
on God to set up idols (mainly ourselves) which can never satisfy. Communion
with God is broken; separation is the replacement.
As we close the book of Jeremiah in our chronological
reading, let us remember the lessons learned from it. Sin separates; repentance
restores.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our
sins
and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
I John 1:9
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