November 2-8: Ezekiel 1-3; 33-34- 36-37; 47
"A New Spirit Will I Put within You"
Sierra Vial (American, born 2004)
I See You (2024)
Oil on board, 16 x 12 inches
Collection of the artist
Used with permission of the artist
Ezekiel opens with a dramatic vision given to Ezekiel, where he sees God’s glory in a mysterious and powerful form, including wheels within wheels and living creatures. God calls him to be a “watchman,” warning the people to turn from wrongdoing and delivering God’s messages whether they listen or not. In chapter 33, Ezekiel is reminded of his responsibility to speak truth and call people to repentance. Chapters 34 and 36 promise that God will shepherd His people, remove corrupt leaders, and give them new hearts and spirits. Chapter 37 contains the vision of dry bones coming to life, symbolizing restoration, and chapter 47 describes a life-giving river flowing from the temple, bringing renewal wherever it goes.
Responsibility is a strong theme in these chapters. both personal accountability and the duty to warn and guide others toward what is right. God promises to bring life, renewal, and transformation to what seems lost or broken emphasizing the themes of forgiveness and restoration. These chapters ultimately highlight hope, showing that even the most difficult situations can be transformed.
Sierra Val, the artist of I See You, wrote this about the work, "This painting came from the idea of peacemaking through honoring one another's humanity." One of the reasons these chapters remain meaningful is because they emphasize the Lords love for his people. His willingness to seek after us when we are lost. This, along with the message of renewal encourages people who feel stuck, discouraged, or broken, reminding them that change is possible. Through it all the Lord wants to forgive.
Gospel Questions
1. How would your faith be different if you forgave as Christ does?
2. What watchmen and shepherds in your life are you grateful for?
3. Being faithful in the modern day is full of difficulties. How should the statement found in Ezekiel 34:16 "I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away" influence how you interact with the people around you?
For Children and Youth
Hi. God showed Ezekiel amazing visions to teach that He can bring life and hope even when things seem completely broken. He also reminded people to listen, make good choices, and trust that He can make things new again.
1. What are some things your grateful for?
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