Jeremiah 29 is best known for its eleventh verse: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” This is an inspiring verse that needs a little context. So today we read from the passage leading up to it. Israel is being led into exile in Babylon where Jeremiah tells them they will spend 70 years. While they are waiting on the “future” and “hope” promised, God offers advice: build homes and gardens, keep marrying, seek to enjoy life, seek peace with those who have captured you and pray for them. And in the midst of it all, keep hope because “I have plans for you.”