The opening vision of Ezekiel brings us into a new era of biblical prophecy. At this time, 593BC, Judah, the remnant of Israel, is under the fist of the Babylonians and already many of the people have been taken into exile including Ezekiel and the king, Jehoiachin. The final destruction of Jerusalem (586BC) has not yet taken place but Judah is now in freefall and her fate is sealed. It is in this context that this bizarre and awesome vision bursts upon Ezekiel in his grief and confusion over the catastrophic events taking place. God was showing Ezekiel that he was present with his people still and that he was calling Ezekiel to represent him. God revealed himself in such a way as to indicate that he was not stationary in Jerusalem but that he would move with his people and that his eyes would always be upon them. The path of God may lead through some dark valleys but if God is with you then you will come out the other side stronger for it. The valley period of the Babylonian captivity was instrumental in refining Judah to be the people that God had called them to be. They emerged from this a small but resolute band of people with clear visions for their future in God. It is often in the darkest valleys that we finally see the light. Already Ezekiel is beginning to see the light and he is being called to be a lamp to his people even, and especially, in this dark time. It is the same with you.
Ask God to make you a shining light to others today.
Read Ezekiel 1 and 2
