Ezekiel 2:4-7
“They’re a hard case, these people to whom I’m sending you—hardened in their sin. Tell them, ‘This is the Message of GOD, the Master.’ They are a defiant bunch. Whether or not they listen, at least they’ll know that a prophet’s been here. But don’t be afraid of them, son of man, and don’t be afraid of anything they say. Don’t be afraid when living among them is like stepping on thorns or finding scorpions in your bed. Don’t be afraid of their mean words or their hard looks. They’re a bunch of rebels. Your job is to speak to them. Whether they listen is not your concern. They’re hardened rebels.”
“‘They are a stubborn and hard-hearted people. But I am sending you to say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says!’ And whether they listen or refuse to listen- for remember, they are rebels- at least they will know they have had a prophet among them. Son of man, do not fear them or their words. Don’t be afraid even though their threats surround you like nettles and briers and stinging scorpions. Do not be dismayed by their dark scowls, even though they are rebels. You must give them my messages whether they listen or not. But they won’t listen, for they are completely rebellious!’”
God warns Ezekiel this task he is giving is difficult and it bookends these verses for emphasis. Ezekiel’s job is to witness fearlessly to Israel, caring not whether his labor is fruitful. We today are filled by the same Spirit as Ezekiel. It gives us power to share the good news that our sins are forgiven in Jesus. Like Ezekiel, our job is to speak this truth, regardless the hostility of our audience. This is really hard! I am especially aware of non-verbal communication, so I really notice mean words and hard looks. Nevertheless, God calls me to join Ezekiel in this task.
Lord, I am so weak at this. Forgive me. Teach me how to witness more effectively. Show me how to work through the gifts you have bestowed upon me. May speaking the truth of the gospel become a lifestyle. Please help me.