But now, for a brief moment, the Lord our God has been gracious in leaving us a remnant and giving us a firm place in his sanctuary, and so our God gives light to our eyes and a little relief in our bondage. Though we are slaves, our God has not forsaken us in our bondage. He has shown us kindness in the sight of the kings of Persia: He has granted us new life to rebuild the house of our God and repair its ruins, and he has given us a wall of protection in Judah and Jerusalem.
Ezra was ashamed that his people had compromised God’s values in the midst of His deliverance. While He was bringing them out of their bondage to the Babylonians, they intermarried with people beliefs contrary to God. They were about to lose a generation (their children) in the midst of God’s miraculous saving work. This prayer of confession beautifully illustrates his recognition of God’s wonderful grace.
I love the words “He has granted us new life”. As Christians we talk about being “born again”. We are often mocked and labeled “born agains”. Its a reality for those of us who have put our faith in Christ, we are indeed born again to a new life with a new purpose and cause… His cause. For us its to rebuild the new temple… people. God dwells in people not buildings.
God, how about me? Am I compromising with the ways of the world? Am I marrying my belief and trust in You with anyone or anything else?
Today, as we begin a day with some flexibility in schedule, Lord would you do two things with me and in me? Would you restore me? I am tired. I am worried money in three different situations. Would you reveal again how You are in control and able to provide more than is needed in my life. Just open my eyes. And God, I think about this weekend with all the redemptive potential to see people come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Would you work in me and through me to see many saved?! Bless my dad with faith.
