Read Ezekiel 4:1-17
What we’re seeing in the first eight verses is Ezekiel demonstrating a “sign act.” Such sign acts are a prophet’s way of totally immersing themselves in the message. When a prophet is “all in,” there is a greater chance more people will pay attention. In other words, it’s an “attention getter.”
For example, after play-acting the siege on Jerusalem, Ezekiel will be bound by ropes as he continues to put himself into this prophetic word. The meaning or representation of being tied up may suggest the people are in exile, held captive by a powerful force. What does that message mean for the people of God already living this reality? This confirms their predicament of being restrained from living life as they would desire, like they did back “home.”
Ezekiel is being instructed to do some pretty dire things to get God’s message across. Did Ezekiel actually do this? Who was his audience? It sounds like Ezekiel may have been tied up at home, currently in exile in Babylon.
I totally got lost in the details, did you? If Ezekiel was being told to gather enough food to prepare ahead meals and water. for over a year, I can barely fathom having enough vessels in which to hold that many resources.
If that food prep was another “sign act” to get our attention, it worked. What do you think it means? We know God is efficient and thinks of everything. In this case, I think God was making sure Ezekiel was prepared for what he was being asked to do. It’s like making a list before packing for a trip.
God will equip us for what he is asking us to do. He sure is helping Ezekiel. Although, laying on my sides for a year doesn’t sound all that pleasant. God wasn’t asking Ezekiel to go on an extended picnic. God can ask us to do hard stuff, too. Like leaving behind family, friends, and a culture I was familiar with. You probably have your own example that comes to mind.
This siege we read of must mean Nebuchadnezzar’s takeover of Jerusalem coming up soon. Ezekiel is giving us God’s lament over something that is looming. It’s too late now for those who are far from God. Jerusalem is also going to experience food shortages and rationing. Could this be what Ezekiel’s food rations are all about—another “sign act.”
Isn’t prophecy beautiful in its many styles and forms. The way God chooses to get his message to us varies and is often creative. So creative that the only explanation something happens is that God willed it to be. Hallelujah when we see God moving!
Let’s pray. LORD, help me to keep my eyes open so that I can see you moving today. I know you are doing mighty things to prepare your kingdom. I love it when you get my attention with little messages throughout the day. Forgive me for the many times I’ve probably missed your cue out of selfish desire or distraction. Help me work on those weaknesses. In the precious name of King Jesus–Amen.
