Monday, April 27, 2015

Ezekiel, Day 1 Readings

The Calling and Sending of Ezekiel 

Today's first reading is the brief prologue of Ezekiel, the prophet who gave instruction and hope to the people where were exiled in Babylon.  Ezekiel is a trained priest who becomes the main spokesman for God during this period.

Read Ezekiel 1:1-3  (NIV)   (NRSV)   (CEB)
[links to Bible Gateway open in a new window]

The second reading offers the more specific details of Ezekiel's purpose, to share a message of punishment and hope.  Part of the vision of Ezekiel's calling is a scroll, which the prophet eats in order to gain the word of the Lord.  Then Ezekiel is told that he will carry God's teaching first to those remaining in Jerusalem, then to the exiles in Babylon.  However, he is warned that those left in Jerusalem have stopped listening to God, so they will not listen to the prophet.  Still, though, Ezekiel is to share God's teaching with them.

Read Ezekiel 2:1-3:15  (NIV)   (NRSV)   (CEB)
[links to Bible Gateway open in a new window]

Reading the Bible in Its Entirety

If you are planning to read the Bible in its entirety, you should read Ezekiel 1-11 today.