Ezekiel 24:1-27
A new section of the prophecy begins here. It dates from a solemn day marking the beginning of the final siege of Jerusalem (cf. 2 Kings 25:1). The LORD again takes up the figure of the cauldron (Ezekiel 11:3) and announces that not only its contents (the inhabitants of the city) will be consumed, but the cauldron also (Jerusalem with its inherent rust) will be melted in the fire that will break out.
We know in what a sorry state the city will emerge from this dreadful siege (2 Chronicles 36:19). But this same day also brings Ezekiel personally both mourning and suffering: his wife is suddenly taken from him. From his own circumstances, the prophet thus teaches the sons of his people what troubles will fall upon them when the LORD takes from them that which they hold dearest: their city and their sanctuary.
From this we learn that a servant of God does not escape his share of the trials of those in whose midst he lives. What troubles this man of God has had to endure! To be "a sign" to his people (v. 27), we see him submitting to all that the LORD asks of him (cf. Psalms 131:2).
May the Lord find in us willing instruments, obedient disciples, without ever finding it necessary that we should endure great sacrifices!