BibleProject | One Story That Leads to JesusSample

In today’s reading, Hosea gives a history lesson with hyperlinks. He throws a harsh spotlight on Israel’s long pattern of treachery. Like their father, Jacob, who schemed to take God’s blessing on his own terms, the Israelites won’t trust Yahweh to bless them freely. They keep scheming and lying like both Jacob and their ancestors in the wilderness did.

How does Yahweh feel about the nation repeatedly cheating on him with foreign idols? Hurt? Angry? Betrayed? Of course. His deep love for Israel means their treachery brings deep grief. Beyond that, God’s heart aches with compassion for his wounded and wandering people. Yahweh loves Israel, no matter how many times she walks away. The people may break their promise. Yahweh will not.

That’s where the book of Hosea ends. Not with Israel’s brokenness or fleeting repentance, but with God’s promise to make them whole. Yahweh says that one day he will “heal their waywardness and love them freely” (Hos. 14:4).

This restoration will transform Israel into a lush tree with deep roots and broad branches, offering shade and fruit to the nations—the blessings of Eden spreading to the whole world. That’s been Yahweh’s mission all along. Nothing can stop it. Even Israel’s adulterous heart is no match for Yahweh’s healing love.

Reflection Questions

• Meditate on Matthew’s quotation of Hosea 11:1—“Out of Egypt I called my son”—at the beginning of his gospel (Matt. 2:13-15). How do you see Hosea’s hope for a new exodus fulfilled in Jesus?
• Meditate on the parable of the lost son in Luke 15:11-32. How does Jesus’ story help you understand God’s compassionate heart toward his wayward children?