Tape Measure Guy

Ezekiel was a prophet of Israel before and during their exile in Babylonia. His visions foretold the coming exile, destruction of Jerusalem and eventual restoration of the nation of Israel to God’s Promised Land. Ezekiel used unconventional methods to communicate his message of God’s new covenant.

In chapter 40, Ezekiel records the beginning of a lengthy vision in which he spends time with an angelic being (40:3) who took him on a tour. This may be the first Holy Land Tour. This angel carried a tape measure in his hand. For a good portion of chapters 40-46, Ezekiel accompanies the tape measure guy throughout the city and temple as he measures every inch. In sure, at times, Ezekiel wondered why it was important he be shown the exact measurements of the walls, gates, pillars, steps, porches, altar, etc. The vision was specific and very detailed.

In chapter 47, the tape measure guy takes Zeke back to the temple. Zeke is shown the river that flows from the temple. He measures 1,000 cubits and the two wade into ankle deep water. Another 1,000 cubits are measured and they wade into waist deep water. Another 1,000 and now the river is too deep to cross. Zeke is led back to shore and shown trees flourishing on the bank. Verse 12 says their leaves will not wither and their fruit will not fail. Their fruit will be for food and their leaves for healing.

What a visual image! Many Christians wade in ankle deep water much of their spiritual lives. Others dare to spend more time in God’s word and prayer and they may reach waist deep water. How incredible to be one of the few who reach spiritual depths they cannot cross because the river of life is spectacular? The tape measure guy wanted Zeke to teach Israel the God of restoration is the source of food and healing.

I’ve wondered about the tape measure guy and recently discovered he makes another appearance toward the end. Apparently, he’s a visionary type because he reappears in Revelation. He’s the guy taking John on his visions (Rev. 21:15-17). In Revelation chapter 22, the tape measure guy shows John a familiar vision of the River flowing from the temple throne. This river displayed beautiful trees on its banks producing fruit. The leaves are for the healing of the nations. Just like Zeke’s vision.

Well, I guess this could symbolize many things but I think it’s simple. God created a redemptive plan for us by providing the source of spiritual life – Jesus (River). Christians are represented by the trees that produce fruit for spiritual food and leaves for the healing of the world. Let’s follow the tape measure guy into the full depth of the River of Life and bring healing to our land.