at JANUARY 29, 2013 by MARK KOLCHIN

Then I came to them of the captivity at Telabib, that dwelt by the river of Chebar, and I sat where they sat, and remained there astonished among them seven days.”Ezek. 3:15

“ Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.” Rom 12:15
Ezekiel’s vision of the glory of the Lord and his subsequent call to ministry were both dramatic and unmistakable. God had called him to go to his own people to declare their transgression–the reason for their captivity in Babylon. (2:3-4). Yet before Ezekiel embarked on his mission,“ he sat where they sat” for seven days identifying with their misery. Before he brought a word from the Lord, he brought himself, entering into their sorrow. Likewise, no matter how urgent our task from the Lord may be, the ground of God’s work is often prepared and softened by the sympathizing heart in tune with those in need. May we be more like Ezekiel as we serve the Lord. Mark Kolchin

Make me a channel of blessing today,
Make me a channel of blessing, I pray;
My life possessing, my service blessing,
Make me a channel of blessing today. — Smyth