Ezekiel 16:6-8
“‘And then I came by. I saw you all miserable and bloody. Yes, I said to you, lying there helpless and filthy, ‘Live! Grow up like a plant in the field!’ And you did. You grew up. You grew tall and matured as a woman, full-breasted, with flowing hair. But you were naked and vulnerable, fragile and exposed. I came by again and saw you, saw that you were ready for love and a lover. I took care of you, dressed you and protected you. I promised you my love and entered the covenant of marriage with you. I, GOD, the Master, gave my word.’”
“‘But I came by and saw you there, helplessly kicking about in your on blood. As you lay there, I said, ‘Live!’ And I helped you to thrive like a plant in the field. You grew up and became a beautiful jewel. Your breasts became full, and your body hair grew, but you were still naked. And when I passed by again, I saw that you were old enough for love. So I wrapped my cloak around you to cover your nakedness and declared my marriage vows. I made a covenant with you says the Sovereign Lord, and you became mine.’”
God bares his heart here, exposing his deep love for Israel. The early verses of Chapter 16 speak of Israel as an infant girl, thrown out at birth, uncared for and unwanted. When the time was right God bound himself to her in a covenant of marriage. He gave his word and stood by it through her many rebellions and forgave her sins. At last, he could forebear no longer, his righteousness demanding he bring judgement as promised in the law. (Deuteronomy and Leviticus)
God was a spurned lover. He hurt over Israel’s of him rejection just as we with our beloved. We might respond with anger and bitterness. Instead, he forgave and loved. His behavior is our plumb line. Eventually his love for Israel demanded a harsh cure and he administered it. Consequences are a powerful form of love. They help us say no to ourselves and turn to the One who loves us without measure.
Lord, you are a redeeming fire. Thank you for taking me through the flames. The results are worth it. You are worth it.