When you return to the Lord your God, then the Lord your God will restore you from captivity, and have compassion on you Deuteronomy 30:2-3 NASB
 
The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news. Mark 1:15
 
Deuteronomy means "repetition of the law." After forty years the Israelites were about to enter Canaan. But before they did, Moses wanted to remind them of their history,  of all that God had done for them, and of the laws they had to continue to obey as God's chosen people. Moses also reminded the Israelites of their many transgressions and warned them to follow God and not resort to transgressions similar to those in their past.
 
God never forgot the Israelites, and God never forgets any one of us, his beloved children. No matter our transgressions, God is waiting for us to repent and turn again to him. When people experience their darkest times, God may seem far away. Those who are suffering may feel forgotten by God. But in today's passages we are assured that God's kingdom is near, no matter what, and that God wants us to be inspired to return to his loving arms. His love for each of us is beyond our understanding.
 
Dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,
It is truly good news that your kingdom is near to each one of us. Thank you for your willingness and ability to restore us by your compassion. Help us to share the good news of your restorative work in the lives of your children. Amen.
 
Florence Smallfield  
Ministries
Teaching Mission Party