Even This?

Daily Reading: Ezekiel 24

You will be a sign to them, and they will know that I am the Lord. (Ezekiel 24.27)

Devotional Thought: "We know that for those who love God all things work together for good" (Romans 8.28).  I believe that verse.  I've said it many times.  But to be honest with you, there have been times that I couldn't say it.  Usually, it happens in the vicinity of a hospital or funeral home.  I'm torn by the tension between "speaking the truth" and "in love" (Ephesians 4.15).  I wonder how I would feel if someone said that to me at the wrong time, in the wrong place: "All things?  Even this?"

Is that how Ezekiel felt?  When his wife died, God told him, "I've got some good that can come out of this.  But I need you to refrain from mourning for now."  Heartbroken, Ezekiel sought to understand and convey the good that God intended.  "Mournless" Ezekiel was a picture of how it would be for the inhabitants of Jerusalem when their beloved city fell.  They would helplessly watch as the temple burned.  They would stand by and see their family members snatched away and carried into exile.  The calamity would be so swift and so great that they would not even be able to mourn their loss. 

But that was not to be the end of the story.  A fugitive would escape from Jerusalem and make his way to Babylon where he would tell Ezekiel.  Then Ezekiel would be able to open his mouth and express his grief.  And when he opened his mouth, he would be a sign to Jerusalem, reminding them, "Yes, even in this, The Lord is God."

Perhaps you or someone you love is experiencing unbelievable pain, inexpressible grief.  Remember, even in this, The Lord is God.

Prayer: I know, Lord, that you are even now working for my good.  I may not see it, but I believe it.  It may seem to be more than I can bear.  All I can do is trust in you, knowing that you are God.  Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 41.10-13

10 But you, O Lord, be gracious to me, and raise me up, that I may repay them!

11 By this I know that you delight in me: my enemy will not shout in triumph over me.

12 But you have upheld me because of my integrity, and set me in your presence forever.

13 Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting! Amen and Amen.