Ez 36: 16-38

Here the Lord emphasizes that what He is doing is not because of what Israel is, but rather in spite of them. He is doing this for His holiness and His holy name. They were in God's eyes "profaning His name among the nations" (23). The concept of baptism is also introduced here (25) and that He will create a new heart and spirit in them and remove the heart of stone and replace that with a heart of flesh. He will bless them and while He won't erase the memories of what they have done and were, it would be a reminder to them and they would "loathe yourselves for your sins and despicable practices." The nation of Israel and the lands that would be restored would not be just for the benefit of the Israelites but rather for the nations that surround them to realize the power, majesty and the holiness of God.

Such time and pain has passed from Ch 1 and God is longing for restoration but also for Israel to change as well. It is a testimony as to the patience and immutablity of God. He changes not, His compassions they fail not, blessings all mine with ten thousands beside!

Praise for today: great is His faithfulness!