First Lesson: 2 Chronicles 36:14-23

Theme: To ignore prophets is to invite peril

Exegetical Note
The chronicler here attempts to account for the Babylonian exile and the desolation of Judah by describing them as God’s punishment upon the people and their priests for their infidelity and sins, and especially for their failure to heed - and indeed their ridicule of - the prophets whom God has compassionately sent to turn them to repentance.

Call to Worship
Leader: May the God who has sent prophets out of love for humanity be with us in this hour of worship.
People: MAY THE GOD WHO CARES ENOUGH TO SHOW US THE WAY NEVER LEAVE US!
Leader: May we for whom God cares always heed his compassionate urgings.
People: MAY WE AS GOD’S CHILDREN BE OBEDIENT FOREVER!

Collect
Most compassionate God, who…