2020 is a new normal

Jeremiah 29:11 is oft quoted.

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the LORD. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." NLT

It's emblazoned on inspirational social media posts and Christian memorabilia. However, when we take the scripture out of context, we miss out on its fuller concept.

Jeremiah 29:11 has several verses and chapters before it. Part of the book of Jeremiah expounds on the fall from grace of a people.  Jeremiah 29:1-10 describes how a group would only be exiled with no hope of a quick return to their homeland. God tells these new exiles that life in Bablyon will be their new normal for 70 years, and they should work for the prosperity of their new land.

The Israelites are presented with the harsh reality of their exile- the loss of their land- the loss of what they called normal. Then, we get Jeremiah 29:11. 

Their blessing lies with trusting God in the midst of their new normal not in ignoring their new circumstances. The Lord's good plan for His people was not returning to what they know but fully embracing their new season of life.

In the midst of their new normal, God still had a plan to prosper them.

In the midst of our new normal, God still has a plan to prosper us. 

Like the Judean exiles, we know what and who we lost. Like the Judean exiles, God sends us His promise. To navigate this new normal let us follow the same instructions God gave to his people in Jeremiah 29:12-14.

In those days when you pray, I will listen.  If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.”

A prayer

Father, help us look to you wholeheartedly in our new normal. While this season won't last forever, let us take comfort that you know the plans for our future. We trust in Your plan for our future. Remind us that You work ultimately for our good not for our disaster. We remind us that Your promises are true and are greater than our present pain or discomfort. Thank You for loving us in and through our new normal. 

Amen