13 June 2021

On the mountain height of Israel
I will plant it (a sprig from a cedar tree),
in order that it may produce boughs and bear fruit,
and become a noble cedar.

Ezekiel 17:22-24, NRSV

The prophet Ezekiel was speaking to the exiled Jews in Babylon. These were a people who had lost so much – their homes, their Temple, their freedom, their status as the “Chosen People”. Ezekiel needed to provide them with hope, and so used the image of God planting a cedar tree. The cedar tree is no ordinary tree but one that towers over others, producing a pleasing aroma and being resistant to decay. Ezekiel uses the idea of this sprig growing into a noble tree as a metaphor for the future growth and restoration of Israel. The Jewish people may have felt that God was far from them but Ezekiel wanted them to know that God was still caring for them and acting on their behalf.

• • What did this image of the cedar tree promise?
  • What signs of hope can we look to when our faith is challenged?

Reflect on and give thanks for all that gives you reason to hope.