Future Plans
11 For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. 12 Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. 13 When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart 14 I will let you find me, says the Lord.
Jeremiah 29:11-14a
Dear Members and Friends of St. John-San Juan,
Jeremiah wrote the words above to the leaders of Jerusalem after they were taken into exile by the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar. Knowing that they were overwhelmed by questions of the future, Jeremiah reminded them to trust God and to live their lives fully even in difficult times and places. He encouraged them to marry and have children, to plant gardens and eat what is produced, and to seek the welfare of the community in which they live, and always trust God’s goodness.
Jeremiah’s words remind us that God’s plans are future-focused and full of goodness and grace. We also must live for the future of our church and community and work to discern God’s plans for us. Sometimes that can seem daunting and overwhelming, just like it did for those who were taken to Babylon. Yet God has promised that God will hear our prayers and respond when we seek God. Let us continue to plan for the future, pray for guidance, and seek to do God’s work in the world.
May God bless you throughout this month,
Pr. Ellen