punishment not meant to destroy person - 26th week saturday

Today we continue our reflection from the book of the Prophet Baruch.  This short work continues with the themes of lamentation and hope. 

Sin has left the people of Israel in exile.  They have been unfaithful and for that they were punished.  But this punishment was not meant to destroy.  Remember, Israel, our reading says, You were sold to the nations, not for your destruction. 

Punishment is never meant to destroy the person, punishment is never meant to be an instrument of vindictiveness.  It is meant to restore, it is meant to rehabilitate the offender.  As the book of proverbs states, he whom the Lord loves he chastises, he whom the Lord loves he disciplines.

That is why Baruch had to encourage them to call out to God, to turn to him once more for he who punished them will remember and restore them once more.  God will save them and bring them back enduring joy.