Ezekiel 1-3

I’ve heard criticism of the people we read about today, who wept when they saw the new foundations of the Temple laid. Some have used it as condemnation of anyone who fights against change.

Here’s the thing – the people we read about today remembered the temple Solomon built. They had seen it, worshiped inside of it. They remembered the splendor. They remembered the good old days, and maybe they realized what they were seeing wasn’t going to hold a candle to what had been.

I’m old enough to remember a time when society revolved around the Church. There were “Blue Laws” that held Sundays to a higher standard. Business were closed. You couldn’t buy alcohol. Youth sports were not scheduled.

I’m old enough to remember churches open and people attending services Sunday mornings and evenings, and Wednesdays. I remember the rich truths of hymns that, even as a teenager, had me thinking, learning, growing, not just feeling.

Today, the church revolves around society, and I won’t apologize for mourning the loss. Oh, our church services are loud and joyful. It’s hard to distinguish between the laughter and the weeping.

But in case you’re wondering – I’m one who is weeping because I remember.