During my Facetime, I have been reading through Ezekiel again. (If you don’t know what “Facetime” is, then click the link to find out!) It’s been years since I’ve read it and I’ve never been this consistent with it. WOW, talk about crazy! It’s full of vivid imagery and allegories. If you thought the Bible had no poetic or creative writing, then you should read it!
I read the most beautiful allegory this morning in chapter 16 about Jerusalem being the chosen city of God, but described in terms of a woman. Now I use “beautiful” loosely because it is actually a sad passage in terms of its content, but the writing style is so eloquently brilliant. God says how He raised her (Jerusalem) up from birth, adorned her with fine garments and jewels, and made her the most beautiful queen. People sought after her because of her beauty, and unfortunately she used that to her advantage. She began prostituting herself amongst everyone, but didn’t even charge a fee! Ezekiel describes her as being “like Mother, like daughter” (her mother is the Hittites), and worse than her sisters Sodom and Samaria.
Can you imagine? Jerusalem being described by God as worse than Sodom, a city destroyed for its unfaithfulness! And Samaria, a city abhorred by the Jews! God’s chosen city more evil than two of the cities considered most unrighteous of its time!
Not only is this passage beautifully written, but it extremely applicable today. As a woman, it is a reminder to not take advantage of the beauty, knowledge, power, and clout that God has given me- or can give me. My beauty and charisma is not to be used for evil, but rather to uphold God’s teachings and encourage others to do the same.
I also have been thinking about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as I read through Ezekiel. Since I have friends on both sides of the conflict, I have never “chosen a side” or given much decision to who is in the wrong. As I read more of Ezekiel, I can’t help but wonder if Palestine will be victorious in this conflict? It seems that God’s prophetic word has constantly condemned Jerusalem and spoken of continuous trial. He speaks of its unrighteousness and disbelief, and how He will punish the city and its people. I’m stepping out on a limb here, but could it be that we are witnessing God’s wrath upon Jerusalem? That we are seeing the birthpains of Him fulfilling His prophecy?
What are your thoughts? Leave a comment below!