Jeremiah is sometimes called: the Weeping Prophet. He prophesized during the reigns of King Josiah, King Jehoahaz, King Jehoiakim, King Jehoiachin, King Zedediah. When Jerusalem was conquered by Babylon in 586 BC, Nebuchadnezzar gave Jeremiah the choice to go to Babylon or remain in Jerusalem. Jeremiah chose to remain in Jerusalem and minister to the remnant.

In the 6^th century BC, Jeremiah wrote the biblical book of Lamentations.

Lamentations 3:21 This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. 22It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

Mercy = God not giving sinners what we deserve

Compassion = a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another, who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering.

What do these verses tell you about God?

What do these verses matter to you?

Our focus – Hebrews 12: ¹ Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, ² Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God

Our challenge – Dearly Beloved,

Run with your eyes on Jesus alone!

Run in faith that Jesus loves you with an everlasting, unconditional love; has uniquely designed and created only one you; has a good plan for your life; runs with you; and will  accomplish His purposes for you and through you!

Run in His strength alone!

Run being yoked to Emmanuel!

Run with your eyes on the prize!

Run with your focus on His mission: to conform you to the image of Jesus Christ!

Run with the desire to finish strong!

Run with the desire to finish with your lamp burning!

Run to obtain an incorruptible crown!

Run with the expectation of being in His physical presence when together you cross your finish line!

Run to His glory alone!

Run and keep on running!