Saturday 14 February 2026
"I will give them one heart, and put a new spirit within them; I will remove the heart of stone from their flesh and give them a heart of flesh." (v. 19)
Background
This final section of the book of Ezekiel that we will look at this week brings us to a time of restoration for the Israelite exiles. The people back in Jerusalem seemed to have decided that those in exile are far away, and so Jerusalem and Israel is now theirs and theirs only. Although it is not spelled out here, the sentiment is that the exiles have lost the inheritance of their Promised Land.
As so often is the case, God’s word comes as a counter to these words. Yes, the exiles have been scattered among the nations, but even there God has been their sanctuary until the time when God will give them back the land of Israel. Not only will they return to the land, but they will cleanse it by removing the images and idols that were installed while they were absent.
Those in exile have learned a lesson. In a foreign land surrounded by idols and images they have been reminded of who God is and God's commands to them. Ezekiel’s vision of the Temple and the idols that meant God’s glory had to depart has taught them about what needs to be done to stay faithful.
The final part of God’s word reiterates the visions we have read about during the past few days. Some people will not listen to God’s word to them. Worshipping idols and images is despised by God and comes with consequences. Those who follow God’s decrees will be God’s people.
The final image is of the heavenly creatures and the glory of God stationed above them. These have been a constant since that moment by the River Chebar when the whirlwind approached. (1:1-28) They act as a thread that runs through all the visions we have looked at and remind Ezekiel that this is all part of what God wishes to show him and the word he has to take to the people.
To Ponder:
- The sense of place was really important for the people of Ezekiel’s day. How does the place where you worship impact your encounter with God?
- What do you believe about worshipping idols and images?
- What helps maintain hope and patience when it feels as though God has departed?
Prayer
God of yesterday, today, and for ever, give us the strength and hope to keep journeying with you and one another. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd David Wynd
David Wynd is a Methodist minister serving in Cullercoats, in North Tyneside.