Strength Is Ours for a Season

Whom art thou like in thy greatness?

Ezekiel 31:2

Read Ezekiel 31 and 32. Focus on Ezekiel 31:2 through 14 and 32:17 through 32. There are things we do so easily for years that we begin building our expectations around always being able to do them. We assume our energy, influence, physical strength, or position will remain available whenever needed. Change reveals how much of life was resting on that assumption. Ezekiel 31 presents Assyria as a towering tree, magnificent in its growth and providing shelter beneath its branches. Its height becomes a source of pride, and its fall leaves those who depended on it shaken. Egypt is instructed to consider the comparison. The image recognizes greatness without making greatness permanent. What once gave shelter can be brought down. A powerful nation does not escape judgment because its reach is wide or its history impressive. Chapter 32 continues with laments over Pharaoh and Egypt. The language of descent among other fallen nations emphasizes the end of their visible might. The chapters do not provide a simple diagram of every detail of life after death. Their force is to confront the mortal limits of rulers who appear untouchable. These passages invite sober thought about the strength we hold temporarily. We can use it well while it is available without treating it as something that will never change. For a parent, that might include helping children become responsibly capable rather than preserving their dependence. For a leader, it may mean sharing knowledge so the work does not collapse whenever they are absent. For someone with good health or stable resources, it may include practical preparation for seasons when help will be needed. Such preparation can feel uncomfortable because it acknowledges that we will not always occupy the same place. Yet refusing to acknowledge change does not protect the people who rely on us. It may leave them less prepared to adapt. We can also become gentler toward people whose former capacities have changed. A reduced role or slower pace does not erase their dignity. We should not value a person only for the shelter their strength has provided to us. Ask what you can pass on, document, teach, or arrange while you are able. The purpose is not to live in fear of decline. It is to hold present strength with gratitude and generosity. What has been entrusted for a season can be used to prepare care that continues when the season changes. Put It into Practice Document, teach, or arrange one important responsibility so it can be carried by someone else when needed. Make the preparation an act of care rather than anxiety.

What would become unnecessarily difficult for others if you could no longer provide something they presently assume you will always handle?

Eternal God, help me receive present strength without assuming it is permanent. Teach me to prepare, share knowledge, and welcome help. Give me respect for people whose capacities have changed, including the person I may become. Amen.