The certainty of the LORD’s judgement: Ezekiel 14 (Day 254)

Pray

We come before you Lord, just as we are: nothing more, nothing less. You made us in your image and loved us into being. So be among us now, just as we are: nothing more, nothing less. We thank you God for this time today. Amen.

Read

2 Samuel 6 1 Corinthians 16 Ezekiel 14 Psalm 55

Daily reflection: Ezekiel 14

God rebukes those who believe that they can use him as a fortune-teller, especially those who call themselves elders, without even respecting him enough to worship and praise him as their God.

God takes responsibility for everything that happens, both righteous works and evil works, without committing evil himself. Since God has all authority, he is ultimately responsible for everything that happens, even if he himself does not do it. So in this way, God claims responsibility for the deception of a prophet (verse 9) but we see how God answers the man with deeds and not just words. God will send judgements and punishments on that man for his sins. We are reminded of a similar idea about God in Amos 3.6: 'Is there an evil in the city which I have not caused?' This was the Hebrew pattern of attributing to direct action of God what he only permitted.

Ezekiel’s vision goes further: even if Noah, Job and Daniel were to plead for the House of Israel, they wouldn’t be able to save it. Noah, Job and Daniel were legendary for their righteousness before God but their righteousness can’t save Israel. God will hold the people of Israel to account. Ezekiel’s name signifies 'strong is God', or 'whom God makes strong' and through him God is revealing his own strength of character and power. Nevertheless, God's strength is always there to save the faithful rather than destroy them, as Israel’s enemies are bent on doing.

Pray

Loving Lord, let me find in you all the strength I need to live. When I am weak or assailed by my enemies, let me hold on to you and be saved by your mighty love. Amen.