Out of Believers’ Hearts…

Yesterday, we reflected on a vision from the book of Ezekiel. He was writing during a time of exile in Babylon, after the city of Jerusalem had been completely destroyed. In chapter 47, we are given a vision of restoration and hope. Ezekiel sees the temple restored, and interestingly, water is pouring out from beneath its threshold.

Ezekiel is witnessing the return of the glory of God—the presence of God—to the temple. But it’s no longer confined to the temple. It cannot be contained, even within that massive structure! What he is really seeing is the effect of God’s glory—God’s Spirit—pouring out from the sanctuary. And everywhere the river flows, there is healing, and life thrives.

The image of water here is not insignificant. In the Gospel of John, Jesus said, “If you would just ask, I would give you living water…” In another place, He says, “Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water.”

Again today, I invite you to reflect: Where have you seen this living water at work? How has this mighty river touched your own life—and your own community?

Let us pray: Holy God, we thank you for the times when we have seen your hand at work in the world. I pray today that your Holy Spirit would continue to pour out of our worship, bringing healing and hope to those who need it most. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.