“Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from my mouth, you shall give them warning from me.” — Ezekiel 3:17
Amongst a people of denial and sin lived a faithful man, Ezekiel. The people of God had devoted themselves to idolatry, living like the lost of the world. Ezekiel stood as a lone watchman. Charged as God’s prophet, he looked to the horizon where he saw signs of hope and woe. He exemplified bravery in a way only a man carried forth by God could. In God's messages of judgment, he called his people to repent. And looking forward, he declared the promises of Kingdom restoration and a greater covenant to the lost people of the Lord.
The Watchful Prophet is charged with doing the same. A careful observe of the events of today and tomorrow, he speaks to the exact need of the moment in view of the future. Steadfast and honest, he is unlike the shepherd boy who cries wolf. He speaks truthfully and stands tall even when the wolves are at the gate. He reads the signs of the day with uncommon accuracy, carried on with in the Spirit’s gift of discernment. Therefore, when he speaks, he is not given over to rambling or confusion. To those who hear, his message is life giving.
In the mission field, the Watchful Prophet performs many roles. First is protector. Turbulent events and happenings often swarm around the work of missionaries. The Watchful Prophet enjoys the challenge of discerning credible threats and passes on helpful warnings to those around him. Second is the role of unifier. Satan hates missions and missionaries. He sows seeds of disunity and sin. But God does not leave us helpless. The Watchful Prophet discerns the early signs of dissension, enabling him to kill sin at the root and bring God’s people to repentance. Third, he proclaims God’s Kingdom with fervor. Unlike Ezekiel, who spoke to exiles before Christ's victory over Death, the Watchful Prophet now calls for the lost to know the enthroned King of Heaven and enter His Kingdom rule. His message is one of present power, not eminent warning. That is reason for praise.
Stand upon the watchtower you, Watchful Prophet. Discern the signs of the day and the voice of the Lord. Bring to bear the Word of God on the lives of men. And proclaim God’s Kingdom in gladness!
