For Ezekiel’s next demonstration to the exiles, God had Ezekiel shave his head and beard. The hairs represented the people of Jerusalem, and God had Ezekiel divide the hair into three parts to symbolize the different fates that they would face (2). Some would fall to the sword, others would perish inside the city, and others would be scattered and pursued (12). Only a few, corresponding to the hairs tucked in the folds of Ezekiel’s garment, would be saved (3). They represented those close to God who would be saved from the judgment.

God’s judgment would be horrible, beyond people’s imagination (14-17). God brought this about because the Israelites didn’t set themselves apart from other nations by following God’s laws, becoming even worse than said nations (7).

We come to Jesus for salvation because we know there is a judgment. Those who come close to God through Jesus do not share the same eternal fate. So, we should realize the importance of being different from the pattern of the world, reflecting our belonging to God. Jesus told us to strive to enter the narrow gate (Mt 7:13-14). If we come to Jesus by faith, he accepts us and holds us closely to him, guarding us from judgment.
Application: Father, I know there is a judgment that divides people up. Help me not follow the pattern of the world. Hide me in the folds of your garment.
One Word: Be different; be close to God