Day 240

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The City of God is There!

Scripture

August 27—Ezekiel 44-48: New Worship for Israel

Observation

Having discussed in detail the new temple, Ezekiel now turns to the new worship that will take place there. As in the past, Israel will rely heavily on the priests, Levites, sacrifices and feasts. Strict stipulations are laid down regarding duties and privileges in the new temple. Finally, Ezekiel describes the the new divisions of the land for the tribes, priests, princes and people of Jerusalem. The book closes with a fitting statement: "The name of the city will be 'The City of God'" (48:35). At the end of his book, as in the beginning, Ezekiel's burden continues to be that the world might know the God of Israel, the Lord of glory and holiness.

The Lord is here, there and everywhere. The concluding phrase of Ezekiel, "The City of God" (literally "the Lord is there," 48:35), becomes the recurring theme of John in the book of Revelation. God's abiding presence becomes the chief joy of those in the new heaven and new earth (21:3-4, 7, 22-23; 22:3-5).

Application

To the exiled and homesick Jews, it must have been both comforting and convicting to hear Ezekiel talk about the new temple.

How the people must have loved to hear the minutest details of the new worship they would enjoy in their restored homeland. And how they must have wept in shame and remorse at the thought of all they had forfeited through idolatry and indifference. Though they had given up on God, God  had never given up on them. His attention to details shows his deep interest in the daily affairs of his chosen people.

God is powerful enough to move nations and direct world events but he is also interested enough in you to care about what you eat (44:3), what you wear (44:17-19), and whom you marry (44:22)! Indeed, your God is a God of detail. Take one of your hurts or disappointments and leave it with him right now. He cares! 

Prayer

Our Father, we want to give the best hours of every day to you, our Lord and our God. Please help us to set our priorities straight in such a way that we are leading people into the Kingdom. We know that this world as it is is not our home. While we wait for your soon return, we know we must live according to your instructions listed in your Word but we can not do it without your help. Thank you for loving us so much in Jesus' name! Amen!

Help us Lord!



© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business!

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