Haftarah Service Introduction: Jeremiah’s Letter to Israel

Rosh Hashanah 2 5779 Sermon. Rabbi Keilah Lebell

At the time of the Jeremiah’s message, the Jewish people have been exiled from the land God promised them. Their spirits and dreams are shattered and they feel utterly abandoned by God. But Jeremiah, who is not always known for bringing words of uplift, writes a beautiful and comforting letter to Israel, telling her that it will get better: Despite where you are now, he says, God “will build you firmly again, O Maiden Israel! Again you shall take up your hand-drums and go forth to the rhythm of dancers.”

Jeremiah 31:2-20