Ezekiel’s Vision of Restoration

Read: Ezekiel 44-48

We pick up where we left off yesterday through the end of Ezekiel. This time focused on restoration of the priesthood and Israel, the allocation of the land and the reinstatement of the rituals and offerings. It’s unlikely that we would get excited about these details, but those who are in exile, banished from the Promised Land for generations of sinful behavior, these people would read these words over and over again with great anticipation.

In the details, God honors those who have proved themselves faithful through the ages:

“‘But the Levitical priests, who are descendants of Zadok and who guarded my sanctuary when the Israelites went astray from me, are to come near to minister before me; they are to stand before me to offer sacrifices of fat and blood, declares the Sovereign Lord. They alone are to enter my sanctuary; they alone are to come near my table to minister before me and serve me as guards. Ezekiel 44:15-16

The priests are given specific duties and special recognition for their work (not news, but there is a point):

“‘In any dispute, the priests are to serve as judges and decide it according to my ordinances. They are to keep my laws and my decrees for all my appointed festivals, and they are to keep my Sabbaths holy. Ezekiel 44:24

Here’s the rub:

“‘I am to be the only inheritance the priests have. You are to give them no possession in Israel; I will be their possession. Ezekiel 44:28

Special treatment, yes, but not for personal gain. The priests enjoy the firstfruits of the land that are part of the offering and sacrifice, but their possession is God himself. Wouldn’t it be interesting if we would fully live for Christ? This doesn’t seem practical in our society, yet I think it’s worthy to consider in degrees. If I can move one degree more in this direction each year or month, in time, my focus would be fully on Christ.

Lord, be my inheritance alone. Teach me to appreciate that above all other gifts and things of this world.