Ezekiel
Afterward he brought me to the gate, the gate that faces toward the east. And behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east. His voice was like the sound of many waters; and the earth shone with His glory. It was like the appearance of the vision which I saw—like the vision which I saw when I came to destroy the city. The visions were like the vision which I saw by the River Chebar; and I fell on my face. And the glory of the Lord came into the temple by way of the gate which faces toward the east. The Spirit lifted me up and brought me into the inner court; and behold, the glory of the Lord filled the temple. Ezekiel 43:1-5
Ezekiel prophesied the glory of the LORD departing and the temple being destroyed. When it happened, the people knew the LORD truly is God who knows all things and controls all things. Now Ezekiel foretold the restoration of the temple in Jerusalem. He saw the Glory of the LORD return to the temple in the same way it left—God with His Sapphire throne riding on the flaming chariot of the Cherubim.
What amazing grace, that God should return after such stubborn rebellion! It was unheard of that a nation that had been utterly destroyed and its people scattered, should be reestablished. That was God’s promise through Ezekiel. When it happened it was proof that the LORD truly is God and He had received His people back into His grace.
What comfort and peace when we see ourselves as “the people of Israel”. We too have been stubborn and rebellious. The LORD our God draws us back to Him in repentance. Jesus Christ has cleansed us of all our sins. Now God says “your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you.” (1 Corinthians 6:19) The Glory of the LORD has returned to us, may we worship and serve Him in holiness and righteousness all our days.
We thank you, LORD. Truly Your mercy endures forever. May You dwell in my heart forever. Amen.