The End Has Come

Pressing his message from yesterday to its extremes, Ezekiel now tells the people that the whole country will be destroyed, along with the high places. There will be no mountains to hide in, no city walls to take refuge behind. Even the Temple would be destroyed. God’s wrath against sin is inescapable – then and now. As you read, don’t let yourself turn away too quickly from this word of judgement, but allow it to stir up repentance in you, and gratitude for the gift of Jesus. 

STUDY THE SCRIPTURE

Click here to access the reading from Ezekiel 7:1-12

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REFLECTION

Embrace What is Good, Discard the Rest

By Judy Webb

As I was reading and studying from Ezekiel, it struck me that on some level our year 2020, parallels the season the Israelites found themselves living in ancient times.  Had they been aware of what lie ahead of them, perhaps they would be lamenting much as we do now; What a year! Will it ever end? What next?

“Then you will know that I am the Lord.” (Ezekiel 7:4b)

If the people had been listening to the prophets God sent to them, if they would open their minds and hearts to God who sent these prophets to save them, rescue them from the trouble and devastation, soon to be experienced – could things have gone differently?

“…the time has come; the day is near.” (Ezekiel 7:7)

Part of a reading in Streams in the Desert suggests: “And nothing but great trials and dangers we have experienced would ever have led some of us to know Him as we do, to trust Him as we have, and to draw from Him the great measure of His grace so indispensable during our times of greatest need.” – taken from November 15

This year 2020, is more than a time of trial, but also an opportunity to grow our faith…to share the gospel? For many, it does seem a time of harsh reality making it necessary to embrace change; initiate a new way of doing life together. 

“…the time has come; the day has arrived!” (Ezekiel 7:12)

One day things will settle down, but they will never go back. If they did, then all was for naught. It is time to examine the new habits and practices we have adopted and determine if they are a positive addition to our lives. If so, keep using them. If you find some more detrimental to your way of life, discard them. Everyday can be a learning experience as well as a step forward on your faith-growing journey.

UALC CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER - WEDNESDAY

JUSTICE Stir up the power of your Holy Spirit to create reconciliation and justice where we cannot. We are enmeshed in the sin and hurt and futility of a fallen world. But you, O God, have raised Jesus from the dead and poured out the Spirit of your new creation. Reconcile us to one another across the divides we alone cannot cross, in the justice and wholeness only you can create.