In the part of Jeremiah that surrounds this verse, the text focuses on God’s anger against His people for turning away from Him and specifically upon the corrupt rulers of the land who value their own power and prosperity more than the living God. Amidst all of this wrath, though, God brings a promise of hope through His servant, Jeremiah. God says He will draw the Jews who were being sent into exile back to Himself by giving them a new heart for Him.
Seeing this verse in the middle of God’s words of anger offers us a beautiful reminder of who God is as our Father and savior. Yes, He is a God of wrath, and His justice is the only true justice. But at the same time, God’s heart yearns for our hearts. His desire is for our love because of His great love for us.
When I think of this truth, I am reminded of the embers in a dimming fireplace. Though they burn there quietly, they can burst into flame under the right circumstances. The truth that a new fire can arise from the dying embers of an old one is a beautiful symbol of restoration and renewal. The Holy Spirit who dwells within us glows like those embers, ready to fan our love of God into flame. We must persist in choosing God over our own power and prosperity so that our hearts may be transformed by God’s restoration and renewal.