The Return Of The Elders

The Return Of The Elders 

Ezra 1:5-8 NKJV

[5] Then the heads of the fathers’ houses of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests and the Levites, with all whose spirits God had moved, arose to go up and build the house of the Lord which is in Jerusalem. [6] And all those who were around them encouraged them with articles of silver and gold, with goods and livestock, and with precious things, besides all that was willingly offered. [7] King Cyrus also brought out the articles of the house of the Lord, which Nebuchadnezzar had taken from Jerusalem and put in the temple of his gods; [8] and Cyrus king of Persia brought them out by the hand of Mithredath the treasurer, and counted them out to Sheshbazzar the prince of Judah. 

   What we are about to encounter in these verses maybe described as restoration. It signifies returning something or someone to their original state or a former, positive condition, often representing God's redemptive work in individuals and nations. God didn't do it once as we will see. This was, however, the start.

   Note that the invitation to return was open, but the people who were moved were the fathers and religious leaders, and of course , some curiosity seekers. God's redemptive Work through restoration is a recurring theme through out the Word. It highlights God's desire to bring about wholeness and reconciliation as well as offer us  hope for the future. It's a promise of renewal. It is God's act of justice and mercy. 

    King Cyrus also returned all the articles of worship that Babylon had stolen. There was no temple, but they were going home. It promised to be tough, but they had to be in the center of God's will. Just imagine it...the arrival of the first elders. We had a similar experience of returning home after the civil war. The houses were broken down, but we saw pictures of today. You will go past the desolations in Jesus Name. One thing, for sure, you are free and back. Good morning.