Therefore, say, The LORD God proclaims: Even though I made them go far away among the nations and caused them to scatter throughout the earth, I’ve provided some sanctuary for them in the countries to which they’ve gone. (CEB)

Ezekiel 11:16

The book of Ezekiel starts in a minor key and stays there for many chapters. Finally, in chapter 11, we hear something that gives us hope. Even in his judgment of his people, God has continued to care for them.

Through Ezekiel, the Lord proclaimed: “Even though I made them go far away among the nations and caused them to scatter throughout the earth, I’ve provided some sanctuary for them in the countries to which they’ve gone” (11:16). The word translated as “sanctuary” (miqdash in Hebrew) was used most commonly in reference to the holy places of Israel, the tabernacle and the temple. Thus, even when he drove the people away from the temple in Jerusalem, which was then destroyed by the Babylonians, God nevertheless provided opportunities for his people to worship him and to remain in relationship with him.

Our translation of Ezekiel 11:16 misses one of the most wonderful nuances of this verse. Indeed, the Lord did provide some sanctuary for his people in the places of their exile. But this verse suggests more than that God provided temporary altars and places for worship. The Hebrew text can be literally translated, “I was for them a sanctuary for a while in the countries where they have gone.”  It’s not just that God provided a sanctuary for his people; he was their sanctuary! He was still with them, still seeking relationship with them, still inviting them into his holy presence.

As I read this verse, I am reminded of times when I felt far removed from God’s presence. These were times of spiritual dryness and discouragement. Yet, even in the midst of my spiritual wasteland, I found evidence of God’s grace. I think of one time, in particular, when I was about as discouraged as I ever had been in my pastorate at Irvine Presbyterian Church. I was seriously questioning whether I should remain as pastor of that church, or as a pastor at all. In the midst of my wasteland, one of the elders of the church took me out for coffee. He did so, as he explained, because he wanted me to know how much God was at work in the church. He wanted to encourage me and let me know how much he appreciated my leadership.

Through this brother in Christ, God was offering me a cup of cool water in my desert. He did not instantly take away my troubles. But the Lord graciously reassured me of his presence.

QUESTIONS FOR FURTHER REFLECTION: Have you ever experienced anything like this, when God made his presence known to you in a time of great discouragement or doubt? What helps you to be aware of God’s presence in your life each day?

PRAYER: Gracious God, thank you for not abandoning your people in exile. Thank you for being a sanctuary for them, for continuing to reach out to them.

And thank you, dear Lord, for doing this sort of thing in my life. Thank you for the times you have sought me out when I was lost. Thank you for reassuring me of the fact that you are with me always.

Today, Lord, I pray for those who read this reflection and yearn for such reassurance. Make yourself known to them! Be a sanctuary for them today. Amen.