Glorious temple
Day 423, Wednesday, Oct. 8
Ezekiel Chapters 42 – 44
Today we have more description of the glory of the new temple—and a vision of a grander sacrificial altar than we saw in yesterday’s reading.
In 43:7 we read, “Son of man, this is the place of my throne and the place for the soles of my feet. This is where I will live among the Israelites forever. The people of Israel will never again defile my holy name—either they nor their kings—by their prostitution and the funeral offerings for their kings at their death.
(“Funeral offerings” is an apparent reference to some kind of pagan ritual or monument)
Later in chapter 43 we gain an insight into the role of the temple in worship and life. Verse 10 says, “Son of man, describe the temple to the people of Israel, that they may be ashamed of their sins. Let them consider its perfection.”
The building itself was believed to reflect the perfection of God so much that it would lead to awareness of sin in the life of the worshiper.
We usually think of buildings in more functional terms, but to the ancient Israelites the temple was important in itself, not just for the activities it housed.

-Rev. Mark Fleming

Wednesday meditation

Psalms 3:1-8
Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! Many are saying of me, “God will not deliver him.” But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high. I call out to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy mountain.
I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.
Arise, Lord! Deliver me, my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked.
From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people.

Prayer focus
God, may we have a clear view of your majesty and perfection wherever it may be seen.