July 25, 2026 - Ezekiel 1-3

The book of Ezekiel begins:  “In the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, on the fifth day of the month, as I was among the exiles by the Chebar canal, the heavens were opened, and I saw visions of God. . . . the word of the LORD came to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of the Chaldeans by the Chebar canal, and the hand of the LORD was upon him there” (1:1-3).  The prophet saw a cloud, lightning, four living creatures, wheels within wheels, a throne in appearance like sapphire, and the glory of the Lord.  And in the midst of all this, the Lord spoke to him:  “’Son of man, stand on your feet, and I will speak with you.’” And he said to me, ‘Son of man, I send you to the people of Israel, to nations of rebels, who have rebelled against me.’” (2:1-3).  Ezekiel was sent to a people who were “stubborn, impudent, transgressors.”  A people whom God might simply have cast aside.  But he did not.  Still, the Lord reached out, declaring to Ezekiel, “And whether they hear or refuse to hear (for they are a rebellious house) they will know that a prophet has been among them” (2:5).  It’s amazing, isn’t it?  A watchman, (3:17), a plea given, yet another opportunity to turn; how patient and gracious was God to Israel and is to us!  Let us always heed his call.

Zion hears the watchman singing;

her heart with joyful hope is springing,

she wakes and hurries through the night.

Forth he comes, her bridegroom glorious

in strength of grace, in truth victorious:

her star is risen, her light grows bright.

Now come, most worthy Lord,

God's Son, Incarnate Word,

Alleluia!

We follow all and heed your call

to come into the banquet hall.   --Philipp Nicolai; Translator, Carl P. Daw (17^th century)