Ezekiel 36 tells the story of a nation that will be returned to her homeland.

For Israel, this is all she ever wanted.  To feel like the covenant with God is complete again.  'Please, we have seen the error of our choices.  We want a restored faith.  We want restoration to the position of "Yours".  We want to be where we were promised to be.'

And God is saying just that:  Your discipline will be harsh, the time will be long.  When you return you will be different.

This is how:  Verse 26, "Moreover, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh."

What does it take to receive a new heart? 

Today, we go through a painful surgery.  That is after the search process is complete and we find a heart that is suited for us.  Then there is a great recovery period.  Physical therapy.  New diet.  Plenty of rest...

And it is all worth it.  To have a heart that beats correctly.  This is God's promise to Israel.  This is God's promise to the prodigal.  This is God's promise to you.