Read Ezekiel 44:1-31
This was an interesting part of the vision because it we see how God’s holy presence is set apart in the temple as well as who can approach him there. While some might see this distinction as limiting or menacing, it is really quite reassuring and encouraging. God wants to be with his people, and he is setting out the expectations for how it all works.
There is a bit of rebuke here against priests who fell away and reward for those from the line of Zadok who stayed faithful during those years of idol worship that led to God’s fury and discipline. These priests are in the line of Levi, not necessarily those we see in churches today.
However, this was God’s plan for how he would interact with his people and what piety he expected from his leadership. Again we hear of God’s displeasure with how his precious Israelites were led astray by some of the very priests who were charged with shepherding the flock.
Disillusionment from bad leadership is running rampant nowadays as well. The human condition’s tendency toward sin has been around since the beginning of time, thanks to the wily serpent in the garden. How thankful we can be for those faithful priests in the Zadok’s family and for those who listened to them. Someone from that family line was likely one to influence Ezekiel and those like Daniel who stayed faithful during the time of the exile.
God told Ezekiel he would never leave the temple again. Verse 3 says, “Only the prince himself may sit inside this gateway to feast in the Lord’s presence. But he may come and go only through the entry room of the gateway.” Who is this prince? Is it the Messiah himself?
Faithful, priestly leadership is portrayed here. I know there is more emphasis on what is clean and unclean in the culture at that time. I found it curious that dead bodies would defile the priests. I couldn’t help but imagine all the funerals I’ve attended in my life not being led by a clergy. Again, this vision is for the Israelite priests leading the people in the temple. We don’t sacrifice today either.
When we can see what was once expected, it can help us understand the heart of God. He wants our obedience. He wants us to seek him. He wants us to be in awe of him. Those are the things I’m going to focus on today.
Let’s pray. LORD, thank you for the messages in your word that continue to speak to us today even if we do things differently because of what Jesus has done for us. You desire our devotion. Forgive me when I get distracted and act in ways that are not pleasing to you. Forgive me when I don’t give you the reverence you deserve. Strengthen my faithfulness so that my devotion to you is contagious to those around me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
