Reflections on Ezekiel 36  #1

Understanding ones motivations is not always an easy task, but for us the character and activity of Almighty God Himself, as we have been touched by Him and His Love and Life in our own lives, is a central factor in our motivation to be here in Galilee, Israel.

The "Sovereign LORD" commands Ezekiel to "prophesy to the mountains of Israel" saying, "...you, O mountains of Israel, will produce branches and fruit for my people Israel, for they will soon come home.  I am concerned for you and will look on you with favor, you will be plowed and sown, and I will multiply the number of people upon you, even the whole house of Israel".  (v. 8 - 10)

Observing the freshly rained upon mountains of the Galilee that surround us here in Karmiel, we catch a glimpse of God's passionate relationship with His land, the land He chose as a homeland for Abraham and his descendants.  One can feel the Personification as a reality.  God addresses them directly in their role of providing for the livelihood of His people.

Our vision of participating in a small way in God's plan to bring His people back to His land, is being fulfilled here in these mountains; and they are clearly producing "branches and fruit" for the people.  Our part is to package and distribute that "fruit" to those who, at this point are so newly returned to their homeland that they need help settling in and making a home. 

We are incredibly privileged to be here cooperating with God's plan and purpose.