Right after the dry bones, Ezekiel comes to us with images of two sticks—admittedly not as compelling. Both speak to the same idea of bringing life to that which seems lifeless. A year ago, we got a dog. If you have a dog, or young children, you know that you will find yourself with more sticks than you know what to do with. These kids, human or furry, become precious collectors of items that have no real purpose, but that you are unable to get rid of. Every one having its own purpose and meaning, even if we can’t say why.
In life and faith, we find all kinds of ways to collect and keep things long after we need them, or they serve a useful purpose. We divide ourselves, thinking it’s important to have many and various tribes. Here we hear God saying to Ezekiel that just as God will consolidate the sticks, so too will God reunify God’s people.
What are the sticks that we are keeping in our lives? Our churches? And where do we hear God calling us to pare down what we have for the sake of peace, sanctuary and prosperity?
God, you turn dry bones and old sticks into new life. Lead us to letting go of that which keeps us from knowing your peace and unity. Amen. —