Jeremiah 11:1-17

The LORD’s covenant was a covenant of freedom, but the people, once freed, sought bondage again by pursuing the gods of the nations.  Therefore, the LORD intends to bring disaster upon them, because he must keep his part of the covenant.  He must remain faithful, even if his people are not.  His faithfulness to the covenant means that he cannot listen to prayers for deliverance, nor can he enjoy their worship, so even sacrificial flesh cannot divert their doom.  Israel has become an unfaithful lover, who has lost the privileges of the LORD’s house because of her vile deeds.

LORD, we plead the blood of Christ, because we deserve your abandonment just as Judah did.  We do not deserve house privileges.  We seek your grace. Redeem us by your mercy.