Plans

  "I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11).  The Lord spoke those words to people in captivity.  He was encouraging them to live their lives to the full - to build houses, plant gardens, marry, have children and grandchildren - while they were in captivity.  "Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile.  Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper" (Jer 29:7).
  Like a good father, even when he is punishing his children for misbehaving, he wants them to do well; he is on their side and planning to help them do better.  He also encourages them to make the most of a bad situation.  Don't sit and sulk.  Don't give up.  Do what you can to improve your own life and the lives of those around you.  If you work for the peace and prosperity of those around you, you too will benefit.

  For reflection:  It has been 2500 years since this encouragement from the Lord was spoken.  These are still words to live by.  What am I doing to increase the peace and prosperity around me?  Do I have a tendency to sulk or to keep moving forward, knowing that God has good plans for me?
  Let us pray.  Father, I know that you have good plans for me, plans to prosper me and not provoke me. Help me to keep holding on, moving on, going forward, working for the betterment of all.  May peace and prosperity surround me wherever I go.

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