COMMENTARY

Old Testament: Jeremiah 31:7-14
This passage derives from the "book of consolation" portion of Jeremiah, compiled by Baruch, and covers the 622 B.C. to 609 B.C. period. God promises to redeem the remnant from captivity. They will return with tears of joy welling in their eyes. The earth will participate in the restoration by bountifully yielding her produce; it will be a well-watered garden (v. 12). All inhabitants will rejoice.

Epistle: Ephesians 1:3-14, 15-18
A hymn of praise to God for spiritual blessings in "heavenly places." This expression is found only in this epistle, referring to a spiritual realm above and beyond the earthly. Because of his great love, God destined us to be his sons and daughters before the foundation of the world. Salvation takes on cosmic dimensio…