Ezekiel
Then I looked, and behold, a whirlwind was coming out of the north, a great cloud with raging fire engulfing itself; and brightness was all around it and radiating out of its midst like the color of amber, out of the midst of the fire. Ezekiel 1:4
Out of this fire storm flew strange creatures with four faces (a man, a lion, an ox and an eagle). They each had four wings, human hands, and feet like a calf. These beings looked like burning coals of fire as flames danced between them with flashes of lightning. The creatures darted about as fast as lightning. Beside each of them was a wheel within a wheel full of eyes all around. They moved together in perfect harmony, guided by the Spirit.
Above these frightening creatures was a magnificent expanse shining like a crystal. A sapphire throne sat upon it. The one sitting upon the throne looked like a man made with glowing metal from the waist up and pure fire from the waist down. This picture of the Glory of the LORD was both beautiful and terrifying. So also was God’s message through Ezekiel, proclaiming fearful judgment against God’s rebellious people and also beauty in its promise of mercy and hope of reconciliation and restoration.
The vision of chapter one sets the stage for the next eight chapters where God foretells the total destruction of Jerusalem. The fearsome creatures were no doubt God’s messengers to carry out His fiery judgment upon the wickedness of impenitent Judah which had become even worse than the heathen nations.
Yet above that fiery message of judgment lies the beautiful throne of God’s grace and mercy giving hope. Even this fiery judgment came from God’s amazing grace–a last ditch effort to rescue His lost children and restore His people. This is the glory of the LORD, glorious in His holiness and judgement against sin and even more glorious in His grace and salvation.
Gracious LORD, thank you for showing me the glory of your holiness that I may turn from my sin in repentance and receive your full forgiving grace and see the beauty of your glory forever. Amen