Humility, Holiness, and the Shepherd's Call: Reflections on Ezekiel

We’ve all felt the weight of the world pressing in, the clamor of distractions obscuring the still, small voice. Receiving revelation, truly *seeing* God, isn’t a passive experience; it demands a posture of humility, a deliberate cultivation of holiness, and a willingness to heed the shepherd’s call. The recent Grounded podcast episode, featuring Barbara Morgan Gardner, Kylee Jones, and Maren Garrard, offered a compelling deep dive into Ezekiel’s prophetic vision—a vision that speaks directly to our responsibilities as Latter-day Saints striving to draw nearer to Christ.

Ezekiel's initial vision, described in Ezekiel 1:28, is striking: “And as the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud in the day of the rain, so was the appearance of the brightness roundabout. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And when I saw it, I fell upon my face and I heard a voice of one that spake.” The simple act of falling – prostrating oneself before the divine – isn't merely a gesture of respect, but a demonstration of the requisite humility needed to perceive truth. As the podcast pointed out, this echoes the experience of those who reach the tree of life, falling to the ground to receive Christ’s love. It’s a posture not of seeking reward, but of receptive surrender.

This humility is intrinsically linked to holiness. God speaks in holy places, and He makes us and our places holy. Cultivating a space – both internally and externally – where the Spirit can dwell is paramount. This isn't limited to temples and sacrament meetings; it's a continual effort to purify our thoughts, words, and actions, aligning ourselves with God's will. The diligent study of scripture, the performance of sacred ordinances, and the unwavering commitment to righteous living all contribute to this atmosphere of holiness. We are called to be a holy people, distinct and separate from the world, reflecting the divine nature within us.

The podcast also highlighted Ezekiel's role as a shepherd. Shepherding, in this context, isn't merely tending to a flock; it’s gathering, teaching, and leading. It's a responsibility that falls upon each Latter-day Saint, regardless of formal calling. We are all called to nurture the spiritual growth of those around us, to guide them towards the waters of Christ’s grace. This requires not only knowledge of doctrine but also a compassionate and empathetic heart, mirroring the Savior's unwavering love and concern for His children.

The modern prophets have consistently emphasized the importance of walking with Christ, abiding in Him, and following His example. President Oaks’s words, referenced in the podcast, resonate deeply: “He knows and loves each of us perfectly and invites us to walk with him, abide in him and follow his example of ministering to others one by one in charity and love.” The book of Ezekiel provides a powerful framework for understanding how to respond to this invitation, reminding us that true revelation and spiritual growth are born from humility, holiness, and a shepherd’s heart.

Consider, as you study Ezekiel, how you might better cultivate humility in your daily life. Where do you feel resistance to recognizing God’s presence? How can you actively create spaces – both internal and external – where the Spirit can more fully abide? And finally, how can you more faithfully embody the role of a shepherd, guiding others towards the path of righteousness?