Reflecting on this passage from Ezekiel 9, Max Lucado writes:
“Idols come in attractive packages today. You can identify
them when they keep you from worship, consume your tithe, or become what you
are most proud of.”
I feel that these words summarise the overall attitude of
the Israelites before God allowed them to be taken into exile. They had become
proud, arrogant and self-reliant. They felt they didn’t need God anymore and so
this ultimately became their idol. Idolatry is not always linked in with a statue
of a pseudo god, but it can be as discreet as ‘worshipping oneself.’
Ezekiel’s vision continues to jar at our senses, but we must
remember that there are images that God gave to him, so that he could
communicate a message to the people. I feel we shouldn’t get to bogged down on
the definitive meaning of each one, as it can be a little confusing. However,
we need to take note of the overriding message that comes through – God is
heart-broken that we have turned our backs on Him and he is going to respond as
a jilted lover – with anger.
“Oh, Lord God! Will you destroy everyone left alive in
Israel when you turn loose your anger on Jerusalem?” – Ezekiel 9:8
Prayer: Lord, help me to test my motives so that I may walk
in your ways.
Living in Grace
D3LM3
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