Life (September1)

Fishermen will stand along the shore; from En Gedi to
En Eglaim there will be places for spreading nets.  The fish will be of many kinds, like the fish of the Great Sea.
                                              Ezekiel 47:10 NIV

This verse could easily be skimmed over in today's reading.  At first thought, one might envision a lake to fish in with a great variety of fish.  However; in giving the passage some thought, one would realize that: En Gedi is located on the western shore of the Dead Sea; the Dead Sea is too salty for fish to live in; and this prophecy tells of fish living, in fact thriving, in a very inhospitable location.

In a very real sense, this prophecy parallels the valley of dry bones prophecy quite nicely.  In both passages, something from God gives life to a lifeless place.  In the valley of dry bones verse, we read that the source of life was the Word of the Lord.  In today's passage, we read that water, the river, flowing from the temple of God provides for life in the Dead Sea.

As these two passages echo each other, it is important to realize that our unchanging, incomparable God is the source of life.  If we seek first God, God's will, or the Kingdom of God, much benefit accrues.  One benefit is the action of the Holy Spirit and Spiritual gifts provided.

On a side; based on the geography of the land south east of Jerusalem, sloping to the Dead Sea and on the soil which does not readily absorb water, a light rain near the temple in Jerusalem can flow downhill, and be channeled by gullies and valleys into a raging torrent as it flows into the Dead Sea.  This torrent is so fierce that when there is a slight rainfall near Jerusalem, warnings are given to people in the valleys who might be rock climbing, camping, or just sightseeing there.  These warnings are given, because the water is so fierce that rocks become projectiles and individuals near the torrent run the risk of being killed by the stones.

Just consider how we, like the water, when we follow God's will, in starting something small, with the Spirit's guidance, may be starting a world changing event. 

Remember lyrics from a song?  It only takes a spark to get a fire glowing, then soon all those around can warm up in its glowing, that is how it is with God's love, once you've experienced it, it is fresh like spring...the kind of thing...you want to pass it on.

What kinds of things have you started by following the Spirit?

How did they turn out?

How have you passed on God's love?

Pray for your eyes to be open to the Spirit's direction.


Yours truly,


David P