Observation: Ezra has been ordered by the king of Persia to truly become the priest of Yahweh in the temple in Jerusalem. He has been given materials to reinstate temple practices, authority to execute all the laws of the Lord, and commission by the king to prove the right of the Israelites to do so. After repeating the orders written by the king, this is Ezra's response ... blessed be the Lord! Ezra acknowledges that this is all the act of God, who has moved the heart and mind of the Persian king into honor for the Lord, respect for the Israelites, and action to align both into worship.
The Lord has created the scenario to honor himself, but has also done so by reestablishing the honor of Israel, and specifically ensuring that earthly honor and respect has been bestowed upon Ezra as the earthly representation of that respect for the name of the Lord.
Application: Earthly honor certainly must point back to the Lord. When I, my family, or my church community receive honor or respect, it is because the Lord has moved the situation to create it.
As we conclude a week where our church has been publicly respected and thanked for maintaining holiday traditions, may we give the honor to the Lord who has protected and aided us in all matters. It is only by the Lord that any honor may come, and it is truly only FOR the Lord that earthly honor exists. He is the only one worthy of praise and honor and glory, and such accolades are for him alone.
Prayer: Lord, blessed be your name, and blessed by Jesus Christ, who has created a scenario where unbelievers who do not know you would yet thank you for your love and kindness. May we pass those praises on to you in the days to come. Amen.
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