26 September 2023
Moreover, I make a decree regarding what you shall do for these elders of the Jews for the rebuilding of this house of God: the cost is to be paid to these people, in full and without delay, from the royal revenue, the tribute of the province Beyond the River. May the God who has established his name there overthrow any king or people that shall put forth a hand to alter this, or to destroy this house of God in Jerusalem.
From Ezra 6:7-8,12,14-20, NRSV
Some years had passed since King Ezra had given the Jewish people who wanted to return to Jerusalem and Judea the right to return and to repopulate Judea and to rebuild Jerusalem. The focal point was to be the rebuilding of the Temple. However, in the intervening years, opposition from some enemies of Judah had delayed the plans and little progress was made. A new governor appealed to King Darius for clarification as to what should happen. King Darius not only re-authorised the building but also provided for the expenses from the royal treasury. The reconstruction was fittingly completed by the Feast of Passover some twenty five years after it had begun.
- How do you suppose it felt for the Jews to celebrate the Passover in their new temple?
- When have you received encouragement and support to complete a project – why did others want to support you?
Pray today for those who through circumstances of wars or natural disasters are unable to meet together to pray and worship.
