26 And above the dome over their heads there was something like a throne, in appearance like sapphire;* and seated above the likeness of a throne was something that seemed like a human form. 27Upwards from what appeared like the loins I saw something like gleaming amber, something that looked like fire enclosed all round; and downwards from what looked like the loins I saw something that looked like fire, and there was a splendor all round. 28Like the bow in a cloud on a rainy day, such was the appearance of the splendor all round. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord.
These descriptions of the likeness of the glory of the Lord contain elaborate images and often inspire artistic renditions. The images are impressive to try to imagine, or even to picture. Sapphire and amber and fire... Wow. People point to passages such as this one to help inform an image of God. But what I'm realizing again about this account of the Lord's appearance is that it's pretty uncertain: our prophet sees "something like..." or "something that seemed like..." several times.
So, do we dismiss this as an account that is sketchy at best? Well, that's certainly an option. But it also gives us the opportunity to acknowledge just how amazing and awe-inspiring this experience must have been for Ezekiel, and how completely beyond our limited descriptions God truly is. However we vision God, we are always limited by our own experiences, our own world-view, our own prejudices.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
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