Ezra and the Law

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Ezra and the Law

It seems to be a truth that we mortals often do not appreciate what we have until we don’t. May I illustrate?

The people of Judah were destroyed as a nation and carried captive into Babylon where they remained for some 70 years. Then Cyrus, the King of Persia, moved by the Spirit of the Lord, gave leave for those Jews who so desired to return and rebuild the Temple at Jerusalem. (see Ezra 1:3)

Under Zerubbabel some did so. But those many years in captivity had cost them so much of their sacred heritage. They had become corrupt in their law, their language, and their worship. Many Jews never returned to the Holy Land and were swallowed up in gentile society. And for those who did return, there was a powerful moment of sacred awakening.

Ezra, the Priest, journeyed from Persia to Jerusalem bringing with him the Law of Moses. (see Ezra 7: 6, 10) On a specific day “all the people gathered themselves” (Nehemiah 8:1) and asked Ezra to bring forth the law. He did so, and when he opened up the book, “all the people stood up,” and then bowed their heads and worshipped the Lord crying “amen, amen.” (Nehemiah 8:5-6)

Then Ezra began to read the scriptures to them. He read from “morning until midday,” and “all the people were attentive.” (Nehemiah 8:3) Teachers stood by who interpreted the language and meaning of the Holy Word for them—giving them the sense of the scripture. (Nehemiah 8:7-8)

At the conclusion, “All the people wept.” The day was proclaimed as holy (Nehemiah 8:9). Israel was changed. From that day forward the scriptures were read, revered, and followed in a way that had not been since Moses. (Nehemiah 8:14-18)

How is scripture study going at your house? There has never been a day in the history of this planet when the precious word of the Lord has been more plentiful to more people than now. Thank God!