October 27th | Ezekiel 1
Did You See That?
There have been moments in my life when I have been amazed at what I have seen. Staring at the power of Niagara Falls, gazing at the vastness of the Grand Canyon, and staring into the eyes of my beautiful wife (I love you, Katie!). God has created a beautiful and astonishing world that we live in, and sometimes His creation leaves us breathless. But what if we could see not just His creation but God’s actual glory on display? How would you describe it? Would it leave you breathless and in awe?
In Ezekiel chapter 1, the prophet sees the glory and power of God on display, leaving us with a grand picture of God’s sovereign, unmatched power in the universe. Ezekiel was written during the Babylonian exile. God’s people had strayed from His ways, and after years of sinning, God allowed them to be conquered by the Babylonians and taken as prisoners. Ezekiel writes to a nation that has been destroyed and hit rock bottom.
In the midst of their suffering, pain, and hurt, God reveals His sovereign and grand power to Ezekiel. God is first described as a whirlwind, accompanied by clouds, flashing fire, and lightning (v.4). Then Ezekiel describes four living creatures that fly around in power and strength (v.5-14). Finally, there were wheels near the living creatures, while wheels within the wheels were moving beside the creatures (v. 15-21). There was a great expanse above the creatures and wheels, and it was awe-inspiring beauty that enthroned a voice and figure in flaming bright light (v. 22-27). Then we see verse 28, which says,
Ezekiel 1:28,
“Like the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud on the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness all around. Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And when I saw it, I fell on my face, and I heard the voice of one speaking.”
God’s glory could only be described in terms of “the likeness.” It would be impossible for us to gaze upon God’s glory and describe it fully. Instead, Ezekiel gives us a grand picture of God's glory. When he saw it, what did Ezekiel do? Fall on His face. God is the undisputed champion and sovereign of the world!
Why does Ezekiel open his book in this way? What do the people who have hit rock bottom need to hear? What does Israel need to remember as they have been carted off into slavery for another nation? They need to hear that their God is still ruling and reigning. That no circumstance can take Him off the throne of the universe.
As you read the opening chapters of Ezekiel, be reminded of who is in charge. Be reminded of God’s power and might. Be reminded that no one and nothing can dethrone Him from His place on high. Whatever you are facing, God is still in control. Fall on your face before Him and trust that He will see you through whatever struggle you face.
