Observation: Ezekiel is being shown the waters that flow from the temple; from the Lord. They flow out as an eastbound stream. As this stream goes, it gets deeper ... it's water is not used up but increases! When it reaches the deadest place of all, life becomes abundant and supports a thriving lifestyle. When Ezekiel looks back, more and more life emerges, with trees that produce abundant, never-ending fruit and medicinal leaves. Everyone who comes to this river - a river that grows and grows and nurtures life in abundance - is provided for and thrives.
Application: I love this river!! It is the river of the Lord's love, his promise, and the pouring forth of his blessing through the Messiah. As the Gospel - the news of salvation from God through faith in Messiah - goes out, the trickle of that news becomes a mighty provision of salvation, which brings the dead to life, restores hope, and feeds the souls of (now) billions and billions.
I live on the shores of this river. I am a fish in the Dead Sea ... where I once was, dead and unable to survive, I now thrive. I am a child splashing and playing in fresh water, enjoying a bite of fruit when I please, and lounging carefree in the shade of a tree that never withers.
I so wish I could truly be at that river right now. I wonder if my dad is there today. He liked camping by the water.
Prayer: Lord, may your river always flow through my home, giving life to my family and I. May we enjoy that river, but also add to it and cause it flow even greater to our neighbors, our community, and our city. I love your river, your love, and your salvation found in Jesus. Please say 'hi' to my dad as he now gets to enjoy this river in heaven. Amen.
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