Ez 33:1-20

From a commentary's standpoint:

·        This passage is teaching basic principles. It is important not to misunderstand its message:

(1) In order to have a right relationship with God, a person must obey God. A wicked person must start to obey God. And a good person must continue to obey God. (2) The *Lord is good. He always does what is right and fair. And he always wants people to do what is right and fair too. (3) This passage does not teach that people can achieve a right relationship with God by their own efforts. Nobody can please God by means of good works or human effort. But the passage does teach that people must change their attitudes in order to please God. That is what it means to *repent. A person must be sincere and humble in order to *repent. And then that person’s behaviour will start to change. The person will start to do those things that please God. (4) The passage does not teach that people can easily lose their relationship with God. Even in the *Old Testament, God did everything possible to bring people back to himself. See, for example, David’s experience in 2 Samuel chapter 12. As Ezekiel 32:11 says, God does not even want to punish a wicked person. And he cares very much about his own people who have a relationship with him. In the *New Testament, real Christians have the benefit of what Jesus achieved by his death. Our relationship with God is not something weak. God established it. So, we can be confident about what he has done. (5) The passage teaches that God’s message is very important. People who receive God’s message have an important responsibility. They must not neglect it. Jesus taught that too (Luke 19:11-27). See also James 3:1.

For me v.11 is the key to the heart of God - repentance from evil is what the Lord desires. The accountability of the watchman is also crucial - to sound the warning against the malaise that can bring a people down. We cannot live in the past whether good or bad, it's our heart and actions now that determines whether we are in lock-step with God. Similar to "what have you done for me lately", "where is your heart now"

Good weekend, all in all. Finished up a gift cert to OLIO's - pretty decent food and value for what we had on Friday with Irene. Saw Pirates on Sat with Irene as well and found it enjoyable, but not great - was able to use a free ticket from the points I accumulated. Was able to do my 2.5 mile walk pain free (feetwise, the other parts of my bod - oh well!) and had some good quality time with David on Sat nite. Sunday was a long day but always enjoyable to hear P. Dave Biedel, the drive down and 2 loads of ironing. Still with the Metskis winning 2 of 3 from the Braves, it was ok but they did have a chance to sweep except for the bullpen melt down. Was also able to spend some time in convo and prayer with GG Sunday evening.,

Praise for today: that GG was able to go to Harvest Bible in Denver and see Marty Magehee yesterday. I praise Him for His healing power over my feet.