Our scripture today is 2 Kings 24:10 (ESV).
At that time the servants of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up to Jerusalem, and the city was besieged.
The people have become like all the nations around them. God warned them against having an earthly king, that they would go down the path of worldly conflict. Now God allows them to experience what being part of that chaos really means. Both Israel and Judah fall to outside invaders and it will be many years before they return to the land God gave them. God is with them still, hoping the lesson will be effective.
Gracious God, even when we are selfish and disobedient, You stand ready to welcome us back when we acknowledge our sin and repent. Bless us to tell others of Your love and forgiveness. Amen.
