A remnant

Today’s first reading (Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13) speaks of “a remnant”: a concept that resonates well in these days.

“A remnant” can describe the people who survive rounds of layoffs at work.

“A remnant” can describe the future state of once large companies cut low by economic troubles.

But no matter who we are – laid off or holding on, devastated or merely troubles – all of us can find hope in today’s prophecy of “a remnant”: we can survive and find peace in God.

But I will leave as a remnant in your midst
a people humble and lowly,
Who shall take refuge in the name of the LORD:
the remnant of Israel.

They shall do no wrong
and speak no lies;
Nor shall there be found in their mouths
a deceitful tongue;
They shall pasture and couch their flocks
with none to disturb them.