For most of us, this image is incomprehensible. However, Biblical scholars suggest that this image was a complete theological breakthrough for Ezekiel. You see, the challenge of the exile was that the Israelites had learned to believe that God lived in the temple in Jerusalem. He was the God of the Israelites, not necessarily the god of other people. With Jerusalem and the temple burned to the ground, it was easy for the Israelites to believe that their God had been defeated by the Babylonian god, Marduk, and that he was either dead or stuck 1200 miles away in the ashes of Jerusalem unable to help them in Babylon.

By the Kebar river, Ezekiel saw God as He is—unbound by time and space. God revealed to Ezekiel that He could be as present in Babylon as He ever was in Jerusalem. He could be wherever His Spirit moved.

I have taken comfort in that truth in these days when I have attended virtual church services, Bible studies, and prayer meetings. In fact, it has been my experience that God is present wherever I allow His Spirit to invade my awareness. God has been faithful to meet me in my living room, my office, my conference room, and other random places where I have gathered with His people. In fact, I have discovered that the key to His appearing is the posture of MY heart. I have to be seeking Him and focusing on His presence.

This week, when we all wish we were gathered together on the hallowed acres of Bonita Park, let’s not wring our hand in despair. Rather, let’s find other places to get alone and to look for God’s appearing. If He can show up in Babylon, then, certainly, He can show up wherever you are living out this season of exile.