Give me courage, O God, to proclaim with boldness your message of love and salvation. In the face of any resistance, empower me with your Holy Spirit to speak your word of truth. Amen.

Ezekiel 1:28b—2:10 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Receive New Life in the Spirit Introduction Ezekiel 1:28b—2:10: Ezekiel is called to be a spokesperson for God, and he is warned that he will encounter resistance when delivering God’s message. Today’s Scripture: Ezekiel 2:2a While the voice was speaking, God’s spirit entered me and raised me to my feet. Today’s Reading 28 Then I heard a voice 1 saying, “Mortal man, stand up. I want to talk to you.” 2 While the voice was speaking, God's spirit entered me and raised me to my feet, and I heard the voice continue, 3 “Mortal man, I am sending you to the people of Israel. They have rebelled and turned against me and are still rebels, just as their ancestors were. 4 They are stubborn and do not respect me, so I am sending you to tell them what I, the Sovereign LORD, am saying to them. 5 Whether those rebels listen to you or not, they will know that a prophet has been among them. 6 But you, mortal man, must not be afraid of them or of anything they say. They will defy and despise you; it will be like living among scorpions. Still, don't be afraid of those rebels or of anything they say. 7 You will tell them whatever I tell you to say, whether they listen or not. Remember what rebels they are. 8 “Mortal man, listen to what I tell you. Don't be rebellious like them. Open your mouth and eat what I am going to give you.” 9 I saw a hand reaching out toward me, and it was holding a scroll. 10 The hand unrolled the scroll, and I saw that there was writing on both sides—cries of grief were written there, and wails and groans. Reflect What was God’s message to Ezekiel? If you were given such a message, how would you respond? Have you ever experienced being despised because of your faith?