Eureka Ezekiel!

We’re in Ezekiel now as we read through the Bible as a church and I’ve always enjoyed Ezekiel- both the book and the prophet. I appreciate Ezekiel's boldness, the way he doesn’t hold back any punches, how the book really serves to modify the prevailing thought in the Old Testament that the sins of the fathers continue on to the 3rd and 4th generations and instead claims that the one who sins is the one who dies. Ezekiel also makes multiple references God proclamation that he takes no delight in seeing people die, but that he would much rather see people repent and live. I am struck by this perspective because I think sometimes we believe that God really enjoys watching people fail, that God is somehow cheering against us or rooting for people to continue to make mistakes. Books like Ezekiel really strike a balance between the idea that yes, God is indeed upset and angry with Israel’s continual disobedience and that there are consequences, severe consequences, for continuing such behavior, but Ezekiel also reminds the people and the reader that God is for people, that he so desires for them to live life right and in step with his plans, and that the consequences of that kind of life are sweet and good.