Our scripture today is Ezra 3:11 (NRSVUE).
And they sang responsively, praising and giving thanks to the LORD, “For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever toward Israel.” And all the people responded with a great shout when they praised the LORD because the foundation of the house of the LORD had been laid.
The Exodus cycle continues as God’s people return to Jerusalem and begin to rebuild the temple. This worship mirrors the return of the Ark to Jerusalem and the dedication of Solomon’s temple earlier in their history. All of this is intended to remind them of their heritage as children of God, and their responsibility to walk in His ways. While there is hope for the future in their return, there is opposition from surrounding nations as there has always been. They will still be challenged as they begin to live in faith again.
Heavenly Father, we know that You rejoice when we return in repentance. Forgive us, and renew Your Spirit in us that we may go to tell the world the Good News of Your salvation. Amen.
