August 4, 2026 - Ezekiel 44-46

“Then he brought me back to the outer gate of the sanctuary, which faces east. . . . Then he brought me by way of the north gate to the front of the temple” (44:1-4).  The tour of the temple continues.  As it does, the Lord gives instruction that is both filled with judgment and with encouragement.  The Lord said, concerning the Levites, “The Levites who went far from me, going astray from me after their idols when Israel went astray, shall bear their punishment.  They shall be ministers in my sanctuary, having oversight at the gates of the temple and ministering in the temple” (44:10-11).  The Levitical priests are held accountable for their idolatry but, that accountability addressed, they are then restored to places of ministry in the temple.  I can’t help but think of ourselves.  For our sins accountability is required but it is another who shoulders that accountability, Jesus Christ.  Our sins atoned for by his sacrifice, we have a place in the congregation of the redeemed, not because of our own righteousness but because of his.  Our God is gracious in his provision of a Savior.  Because of him we gather in the congregation, people blessed above all others.

Here in thy name we are gathered,

Come and revive us, O Lord;

“There shall be showers of blessing”

Thou hast declared in thy word.

Oh, graciously hear us,

Graciously hear us, we pray:

Pour from thy windows upon us

Showers of blessing today.

There shall be showers of blessings,--

Promise that never can fail;

Thou wilt regard our petition;

Surely our faith will prevail.

Showers of blessing,--we need them,

Showers of blessing from thee;

Showers of blessing,--oh, grant them;

Thine all the glory shall be.   –Fanny Crosby (1888)