Ezk 40:1 In the twenty- fifth year of our exile, at the beginning of the year, on the tenth day of the month, in the fourteenth year after the city was struck down, on that very day, the hand of the Lord was upon me, and he brought me to the city. (ESV)
Beginning in Ezekiel 40 and running for 5 chapters is a description of the new temple that will be built. It is easy to get bogged down in the measurements and descriptions of the walls, doors, rooms, steps, etc. But the significant thing is the timing of this chapter. On the day the city fell God shows Ezekiel, in a vision, the new temple with it's impressive size and design.
God is a God of hope. Even as Israel is experiencing his judgment, which he had repeatedly warned about, he offers hope. God promises restoration. God is still a God of hope today. Lives can be broken, relationships shattered, destructive behavior embraced, but there is always hope for restoration,
Restoration begins with the humility of brokenness, repentance and confession. It cannot be built on self delusion, self will and the inherently selfish behavior of narcissism that so pervades our present day society. Restoration of human relationships and rebuilt trust takes much time and healing. Restoration with God is foundational to restoration with others. Some human relationships are so shattered they may never be restored. But God can use even that. He is a God of hope.
It would have been easy for Israel to look at the devastation of Jerusalem and blame the Babylonians. For us it is easy to see the fault of others and cast blame. But, ultimately we need to take personal responsibility just as Israel/Judah needed to take personal responsibility for the fall of their capital. Once we admit guilt God can begin to rebuild. This chapter needs to be read and understood in the context of the promises and curses of the Mosaic Covenant. The fact that God is promising Ezekiel that the temple will be rebuilt is evidence that Israel will one day repent and accept responsibility for their sin.
Father, it is always easier for me to blame others than for me to admit my own guilt and responsibility. Today may I walk in the humility of your grace rather than the proud arrogance of my own self righteousness. May my life be an instrument of restoration.
By His grace,
Rick Weinert
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