Lamentations 3:21-26
Life is often filled with challenges. Disappointment, despair, discouragement, and suffering touch every one of us, even those who live what some might call “a blessed life.” These difficulties are unavoidable because we live in a world broken by sin. Sometimes suffering is a direct result of sinful choices, and other times it’s the indirect result of living in a fallen creation. Either way, we all experience the repercussions of sin.
In the book of Lamentations, the prophet Jeremiah is no stranger to suffering. His lament reflects a heart heavy with anguish. Jerusalem, his beloved city, was destroyed by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. The temple was burned, countless people were killed, and the survivors were taken into exile. To Jeremiah, it seemed as though God had turned His hand against His people.
Yet, in the midst of overwhelming grief, Jeremiah does something remarkable. In Lamentations 3:21, he writes:
“But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope.”
What does Jeremiah call to mind that brings him hope? He chooses to focus not on his circumstances but on the unchanging character of God:
- God’s Steadfast Love:
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases.” God’s covenant love is unwavering, even when we fail. His mercy toward us is not based on what we deserve but on His perfect character. - God’s New Mercies:
“His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning.” Each day is a fresh expression of God’s grace. No matter how dark yesterday was, God offers renewed strength and compassion today. - God’s Faithfulness:
“Great is your faithfulness.” Even when life feels chaotic, God remains faithful. He fulfills His promises and sustains His people.
Jeremiah’s declaration in verse 24 sums up his hope:
“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.”
For Jeremiah, “portion” signified what truly sustains and satisfies. It wasn’t material possessions, status, or circumstances—it was God Himself. In saying this, Jeremiah reminds us where our ultimate security, joy, and fulfillment come from.
What Does This Mean for Us?
As we reflect on Jeremiah’s words during the Advent season, we’re reminded that the promises of God find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The promised Messiah, called “Immanuel,” “Prince of Peace,” and “Redeemer,” is the embodiment of hope.
Through Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection, God demonstrates His steadfast love, unfailing mercy, and great faithfulness. In Christ, we are not left to face life’s suffering alone. We have the assurance of salvation, the promise of eternal life, and the hope of restoration when Jesus returns.
How Do We Wait with Hope?
Jeremiah teaches us to wait faithfully for the Lord:
- Wait Expectantly: Biblical waiting is not passive. It’s filled with faith and anticipation. Hebrews 11:1 reminds us, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”
- Wait Actively: While we wait, we pray, seek God in His Word, and serve others. Just as a baseball player readies himself for the next play, we position ourselves to be faithful in the present moment.
- Wait Joyfully: Even in suffering, we can rejoice because our hope is secure in Christ. His timing is perfect, and His promises never fail.
Renewing Hope This Advent
Advent is a time to remember God’s faithfulness in sending the promised Messiah and to look forward with joyful anticipation to Christ’s return. In Jesus, we find the hope that sustains us through life’s trials.
This Advent season, let’s renew our hope by fixing our eyes on God’s steadfast love, His new mercies, and His great faithfulness. As we celebrate the birth of our King, let us wait with faith, hope, and joyful expectation for the day when He will bring ultimate restoration and eternal joy.
“The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him.” – Lamentations 3:25