August 29, 2017

Insights on Today's Reading

Ezekiel 9 - Ezekiel sees a vision of a man with an inkhorn being told by God to put a mark on those who "sigh and cry" over the wickedness of the city of Jerusalem, verse 4.  Then others are told to take vengeance on those who don't have the mark on them.  A "sigh and a cry" may not be enough to save a city, but at least those who did were safe from judgment.

Ezekiel 10 - As you read this chapter you will notice the "glory of the Lord" gradually departing from the Temple.  God would not have His glorious Presence in a place where He was no longer worshiped.  The "wheels" of verse 9 speak of God's determined action to deal with the city of Jerusalem.

Ezekiel 11 - God emphasizes His judgment against the leaders of the city.  He knows "the things that come into" their minds, verse 5.  The things they feared they will face.  The people would be scattered, but note the end of verse 16 where God says, "I shall be a little sanctuary for them in the countries where they have gone."  That indicates that God is aware of all the places His people have gone.  He still watches over them.

Ezekiel 12 - Ezekiel "preached" two more action sermons in this chapter.  First, verses 1-16, Ezekiel was to pack up his belongings as if he was going into captivity to demonstrate what the people of Jerusalem would face.  The second action sermon is in verses 17-25 and it speaks of the fear and trembling people would have as they eat.  There would be no peace for those who turned against the Lord.