Ezekiel 18:30-32
Therefore, you Israelites, I will judge each of you according to your own ways, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, people of Israel? For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live! Ezekiel 18:30-32 (NIV)
There is a game that has been around for centuries. It seems to have become more popular lately with all generations. I’ve played it, maybe you have to. It’s called The Blame Game. One of the cards you can pull says, “But I . . . “, another “I had no idea.” There are many cards, but two give you extra spaces on the board, “I heard . . .” and “I saw. . .” The problem with the game is it’s worse than monopoly. It can go on forever. And nobody wins The Blame Game; or even feels good after playing it.
There is an alternative game called ‘Fess Up. It goes faster and takes strength and courage. There are stops along the way where we can accept God’s amazing grace as we repent our sins. It’s made for all ages. The grand prize is a new heart and a new spirit.
These verses in Ezekiel are powerful. It is a strong declaration of the Sovereign Lord; sovereign meaning the ultimate ruler possessing absolute authority and power that no one can override. We are assured that when we turn away from our offenses, we can live our life in a new way, out of love, not fear.
I have two dear friends who have had their physical hearts replaced. When I visited each one post-surgery, they gave me the same response to my “How are you feeling?” question, “I feel like I have a new spirit.” This is the same feeling, the same gift that God wants for us. Thanks be to God!
Questions for Reflection:
- When did you last play the blame game?
- Did you feel like you “won?”
- What does a new spirit feel like to you?
Prayer:
Sovereign Lord, Help us turn away from temptations and offenses. Guide us to a path of redemption and accountability. Help us focus on a new heart and new spirit that would empower us to be a blessing to others. Amen.
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