(REFLECTIONS ON EZEKIEL 27:1-36)

We can tell a lot about a person by how they react to the failure and downfall of those around them. For example, if someone fails miserably during a presentation, will they receive comfort and encouragement from their co-workers, or will their co-workers think to themselves that this gives them a better chance of getting that promotion over their fallen compatriot?

Much of life is a competition because we are fighting for limited resources and limited positions, especially the higher we climb up the food chain. However, as Christians, how should we treat others that are facing difficulties and frustrations in life, even if they are vying for the same rewards as we are?

In today’s Scripture, we read about Tyre, the great and ancient city of the Phoenicians on the Mediterranean coast north of Israel (in modern-day Lebanon). Tyre was an important seaport for the whole region and a proud city.

However, rather than showing compassion for Jerusalem’s downfall Tyre celebrated. They celebrated because Jerusalem’s downfall meant more business opportunities for them. Tyre was a proud city full of proud merchants.

Yes, perhaps Tyre was a successful merchant city, full of beauty and majesty, but because they rejoiced over the fall of Jerusalem, the prophet Ezekiel in his lament wrote,

34 Now you are shattered by the sea
in the depths of the waters;
your wares and all your company
have gone down with you.
35 All who live in the coastlands
are appalled at you;
their kings shudder with horror
and their faces are distorted with fear.
36 The merchants among the nations scoff at you;
you have come to a horrible end
and will be no more.

Today’s Scripture reminds us that the Lord’s heart is a heart of compassion, not of rejoicing in other’s tragedies. Perhaps if we cared more about people, than tasks, awards, or positions, we would find real revival and change within our churches and in turn within our society.

When we live in a dog eat dog world, all we end up with is destruction. There are no winners if we are a people without compassion. That is why Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is so amazing. He was willing to give up everything in order to give us life. He does not rejoice at our failings, but rather was willing to give up everything so that we can find comfort under the shadow of His wings.

Prayer: Lord, may we learn to show compassion rather than fall prey to the competitive nature within us that leads us to rejoice at the failure of others. May we not lose sight of people and only see tasks and reaching the next platform of success. You sacrificed all for us, may we learn a life of sacrifice and compassion as well.

Pastor Michael Lu
Enduring Word Bible Commentary: Ezekiel 27