"How gladly would I treat you like sons and give you a desirable land . . " (Jeremiah 3:19

Most parents experience at some time or other, an overwhelming emotion of guardianship; a feeling of uncompromising dedication and solicitous regard for their offspring. In the patriarchal environment of the Old Testament, such sentiments were intensified in the case of a son. A son drew even more ardent attention and sponsorship from his father, than would a daughter. Here, God is seen, deeply affected with warm and generous intentions toward his people. This is not a God to be feared or viewed with suspicion. On the contrary, he is full of pity and longing for us.