Imagine what it would be like if we, as the Church, displayed such enthusiasm for the work that the LORD is doing among us!

-Jennifer Trimble

Ezra 1-3 really excited me, even the new cat snuggled up as I read the Word (pictured). This reflection explores the narrative in Ezra 1-3, which recounts the end of the Babylonian captivity and the fulfillment of Jeremiah’s prophecy. It focuses on the unexpected proclamation by Cyrus, a pagan king moved by God’s spirit, to rebuild the Temple of the LORD in Jerusalem. The article also discusses the restoration of worship among the returning people and the construction of the temple, raising questions about the dynamics of freewill.

Although the books of Ezra and Nehemiah are now separated, they were originally compiled as one. Linked is a video that delves deeper into this topic.

The Setting

To give you some background, the book of Ezra is a historical narrative rather than a prophetic book. It begins by recounting the end of the Babylonian captivity, as Jeremiah’s prophetic words are fulfilled,
and the people return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. What is fascinating is how this all comes about. The LORD stirs the spirit of Cyrus, a pagan king, to declare, “All the kingdoms of the earth the LORD God of heaven has given me. And He has commanded me to build Him a house at Jerusalem which is in Judah” (Ezra 1:2).  So, here we have Cyrus, a pagan ruler, hearing from and obeying God. This raises the question of how much free will is truly free?

The LORD Stirs: Worship Ensues

Furthermore, the LORD moves the spirit of the people to work in accordance with His Will. Those once held captive, return to Jerusalem. There worship is almost immediately restored and work on rebuilding the temple ensues. Of particular interest is the definition of worship presented in chapter 3. Even before the completion of the temple and despite their fears of the people living in the land, the believers commence offering burnt incense and sacrifices on the altar twice a day, as well as observing the feasts and offering free will offerings, money, food, and drink to support the builders. All of this takes place before the foundation of the Temple of the LORD is even laid!

Once the foundation is laid (with the temple still incomplete), the priests stand in their sacred garments with trumpets, the Levites with cymbals, and everyone joins in singing, praising, and giving thanks to the LORD. The people are filled with such joy and excitement that they shout, some even weep tears. The sound of their celebration echoes far and wide, making it impossible to distinguish between the shouts of joy and the wails of cries. Imagine what it would be like if we, as the Church, displayed such enthusiasm for the work that the LORD is doing among us!

Invitation to Explore More

Below is a clip from The Bible Recap about the subject:

I’m currently on Day 260, nearly wrapping up the Old Testament. Beginning on January 1st, 2024, I’ll start the New Testament with The Bible Recap. Look out for more announcements as the day approaches. I hope you’ll join me in reading through the New Testament together.