Jeremiah 29:1, 4-13 (NRSV)

These are the words of the letter that theprophet Jeremiah sent from Jerusalem to the remaining elders amongthe exiles, and to the priests, the prophets, and all the people,whom Nebuchadnezzar had taken into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exileswhom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: Buildhouses and live in them; plant gardens and eat what they produce. Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for yoursons, and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bearsons and daughters; multiply there, and do not decrease. Butseek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile,and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you willfind your welfare. For thus says the LORD of hosts, the Godof Israel: Do not let the prophets and the diviners who are amongyou deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams that they dream, for it is a lie that they are prophesying to you in my name;I did not send them, says the LORD.
For thus says the LORD: Only when Babylon's seventy years arecompleted will I visit you, and I will fulfill to you my promiseand bring you back to this place. For surely I know the plansI have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and notfor harm, to give you a future with hope. Then when you callupon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. When yousearch for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all yourheart,

The Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.