Read Ezekiel 16:35-63
The indictment we’re given here is longest in prophetic literature, and then we get to the verdict. We have to endure reading about the depths to which Jerusalem had fallen to understand how God’s heart was breaking. How would God respond? What punishment would be appropriate?
It’s hard to read those words and almost wince at God’s fury being unleashed. We know what happened to Jerusalem. We sit on this side of history wondering why the people didn’t pay attention. It was like they were tempting God. But God is true to his word, and when these prophecies were fulfilled the people would then realize.
Out of nowhere, mention is made of Sodom and Samaria, both known for their sinful immorality. We know how God felt about those nations! God said here, “Shame on you! Your sins are so terrible that you make your sisters seem righteous, even virtuous.” Jerusalem’s conduct was horrible if it made Sodom and Samaria look good. Imagine how God felt to have such disrespect!
I know the frustration at times working with darling orphan girls who haven’t been to school until they arrive at the orphanage. They haven’t been taught what respect means. The messages they’ve gotten from the world, from their own families, is not one of love or respect. That’s tragic, too. But to not respect God in all his majesty seems unthinkable.
So what do we want to reflect on from Ezekiel’s message? For me, it’s the promised restoration. God’s wrath would bring disaster, just as he said. But God wanted them to know there was hope and renewal in the plan as well.
This one statement sums up what God’s verdict is: “I will give you what you deserve, for you have taken your solemn vows lightly by breaking your covenant. Yet I will remember the covenant I made with you when you were young, and I will establish an everlasting covenant with you.” That everlasting covenant is Jesus, our forever King.
I’m going to focus on the promise God made, spoken through Ezekiel, to those wayward children all those years ago. That promise includes me, too. Having a repentant heart pleases God. God told them that “You will remember your sins and cover your mouth in silent shame when I forgive you of all that you have done.” When he forgives us! That is such a beautiful promise. In the meantime, we can repent.
Let’s pray. LORD, it’s hard to imagine how far your people had fallen away from you. Yet, I see many people today who are just as far, if not farther. Their behavior is appalling and totally disrespectful. My heart breaks for them. They are missing out on a relationship with you. Thank you for loving me and forgiving me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
