Read Ezekiel 36:22-28
God did good things for Israel, not because Israel deserved their treatment but because God was demonstrating his own grace so that through, and in some ways in spite of the chosen people, others would see his goodness and marvel.
On holiday recently on Shetland (you may suffer more references in weeks to come) we visited the tiny, remote island of Papa Stour. The wildlife is so abundant and the coastline so glorious that it was a privilege to be there. But there is something else too.
At the end of a long walk and feeling weary a cup of tea is in order. The ferry drops visitors on the pier at a little after 9:30 in the morning and collects again at 5:15. The island is cafe, shop, restaurant and pub free. In the ferry terminal, a grand description, is a kettle, mugs, spoons and tea and coffee. Self help applies in return for which there is an honesty box. Various other goodies are on sale on the same basis.
The permanently resident population of the island numbers 8 people. We were unknown visitors; we may have been dishonest and yet we are afforded a hospitable place to await our collection by the ferry. How unexpected and how gracious; I will talk about it for years and probably others do too. An example of gracious welcome and anticipated needs.
So is shown in microcosm the example that Ezekiel refers to in the reading. This is about the giver, not the receiver. God gives because he is God and that is what we need to talk about, not ourselves. We are fortunate beneficiaries of immeasurable grace. It is hard to understand just I find it hard to understand why visitors to an island who arrive and go again and give nothing to its life still find a tangible welcome.
A Prayer
God of all bounty and grace, it is hard to comprehend your reason for treating us graciously as you do, until we remember that your nature is love and your image is of untarnished care and concern. Help me to understand that you have never had to do anything for my sake but that in your love you have given everything for the sake of all people, whenever they live.
We adore you for being as you are. Amen.