I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one. Ezekiel 22:30
“The present generation is seriously corrupt and all full of pride and hypocrisy. In bodily labors it perhaps reaches the level of our ancient fathers, but it is not graced with their gifts, though I think nature never had such need of spiritual gifts as now. And we have got what we deserve. For God is manifested not in labors but in simplicity and humility. And if the power of the Lord is made perfect in weakness, the Lord will certainly not reject a humble worker.”
John Climacus (6th century monk) in The Ladder of Divine Ascent, translated by Archimandrite Lazarus Moore (Harper & Brothers, 1959) 94.
Today represents the seventh and final post at this time from John Climacus. We will pivot to exploring what is needful in another classic from church history starting tomorrow.
Today’s Scripture from Ezekiel cites a time when God was looking for someone to stand in the gap. Then in the 6th century, we see basically the same message. I think the same is true today.
In every generation, God looks for people who will stand in the gap. He seeks people willing to rebuild what is broken down. Can He count on you for such a time as this?
Climacus describes the needful traits in such people: simplicity and humility. And I would add generosity. Let us pray for and endeavor to be such people for our day for rebuilding what is broken around us.
Join me. Let us pursue the path of simplicity, humility, and generosity to stand in the gap for God.