A good place to read at this time for us, is Ezra, where is recorded the story of the exiles returning to Jerusalem. Chapter 1 begins with the proclamation of Cyrus, king of Persia, and his praise to God and authorizing the return of the exiles with all the help and support they need. This included the restoration to them of that which had been stolen by previous King Nebuchadnezzar.
In chapter 3, verses one through six we have a description of their new beginning in dedication and worship. We can identify seven significant points in these verses, which have direct application to us. They first had to rebuild the foundation and alter to God, then renew sacrifices. Remember, it had been 70 years since their captivity so no sacrifices had been made to God during their captivity.
1. Peace: In verse one the people settled in their town according to their inheritance being restored.
2. Unity: The people then assembled "as one man" in Jerusalem.
3. Rebuilding: the people began together to build the altar of God.
4. Daily Covenant Obedience overcame their fears: their relationship with God was renewed in worship as they offered the morning and evening sacrifices of whole burnt offerings on it according to God's direction in the law.
5. Corporate worship: they also gathered together and celebrated the feast of Tabernacles as prescribed.
6. Special times of remembrance: they also presented the regular monthly sacrifices and participated in all the feast of the Lord.
7. Willing hearts brought offerings: the people brought free will offerings even though the temple had not begun to be rebuilt yet.
Generations United: Verses 7-13 describe how they supported those who were rebuilding and how they joined in praise and thanksgiving in song to the Lord: "he is good; his love to Israel endures forever." We read that the older members who had seen the former temple, wept aloud while the younger generation shouted for joy. We know that the new temple was smaller than the old which may have been one reason for the weeping. Or, it may be that they were overcome with emotion, for the restoration of the temple for them and the future generations. Obviously, the younger generation rejoice for their ownership and participation in this new beginning.
Overcoming demonic resistance and personal sins: For further reading see the profit Haggai and read the rest of Ezra's writings about how the people united together, overcoming enemies and turning away from their own personal sins.
Let us all seek personal applications: praying morning and evening, gathering for special times of worship, contributing from willing hearts, uniting the generations and forsaking sins.
Dwight
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