(story told in the book of Ezekiel)
Ezekiel was both a priest and a prophet who lived during Israel’s exile in Babylon. Taken from Jerusalem when he was young, he spoke to a people who felt hopeless and far from God. In the midst of their despair, God called Ezekiel to deliver His message—to remind them that, even in exile, the Lord was still present and in control. Ezekiel’s visions and actions showed that God’s power and glory could not be contained by place or circumstance.
Ezekiel’s ministry began with an extraordinary vision: he saw a great storm, living creatures with shining wheels, and above them, a throne where God’s glory shone brightly. This vision reminded him that God’s presence was not limited to the temple in Jerusalem—He was with His people even in Babylon. Ezekiel was then commanded to speak God’s words, whether the people listened or not.
God used Ezekiel’s life as a message to the nation. The prophet performed symbolic acts—like lying on his side for many days or shaving his head—to show what would happen to Israel. He warned that Jerusalem would fall because of the people’s sins, but he also spoke of God’s promise to restore them.
Ezekiel’s most powerful message came through his vision of the valley of dry bones. God showed him a field of lifeless bones that came together and were filled with breath, symbolizing that God would bring His people back to life and restore their nation.
Through it all, Ezekiel taught that God’s glory, justice, and mercy never fade. His story reminds us that even when everything seems lost, God can renew hearts, rebuild lives, and bring hope where there was once despair.