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Ezra Returns to Jerusalem; Deals with Great Sin

Read: Ezra 7-10

Ezra receives the royal blessing to return to Jerusalem, along with all the Jews who want to go with him. The “blank check” he’s given is quite incredible and it makes me wonder what prompted Artaxerxes to be so supportive. It would be interesting to know definitively who Artaxerxes was since the surrounding references point to Daniel (Darius) and Esther (Xerxes). After Googling around a bit, I landed on the Jewish Encyclopedia which provides some details:

Artaxerxes was the second son of Xerxes, who was murdered in the summer of 465 by his all-powerful vizir Artaban. The murderer accused the king’s eldest son Darius of the crime, with the result that Darius was slain by his younger brother Artaxerxes, who then mounted the throne.*

Given my cursory research, I’m far from being an expert on the subject, but it the cite above is generally consistent with other sources. It’s primarily interesting in understanding the context of Ezra’s return. In Esther we see that Mordecai is the second in charge under Xerxes and we also know that Nehemiah is Artaxerxes’ cupbearer given special permission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem during his reign (from year 20 to 32 based on Nehemiah 2:1 and Nehemiah 13:6).

Why did the king of such a vast empire show such favor the Ezra? Was it all favorable? Or did some of the king’s cohorts suggest letting the Jews go because their strange beliefs? It’s interesting to ponder why, but that leads to a rabbit trail that I’ll set aside for another day.

What we do see from the text is Ezra gets the golden ticket to return to Jerusalem.

Now I decree that any of the Israelites in my kingdom, including priests and Levites, who volunteer to go to Jerusalem with you, may go. Ezra 7:13

Ezra recognizes this great favor can only come from the Lord:

Praise be to the Lord, the God of our ancestors, who has put it into the king’s heart to bring honor to the house of the Lord in Jerusalem in this way and who has extended his good favor to me before the king and his advisers and all the king’s powerful officials. Ezra 7:27-28

Perhaps this is our main lesson: first, we give God the credit and then we trust God to follow through:

I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to protect us from enemies on the road, because we had told the king, “The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him, but his great anger is against all who forsake him.” Ezra 8:22

The hand of our God was on us, and he protected us from enemies and bandits along the way. Ezra 8:31

And so they return to the Promised Land after years in exile. All good, yes? Actually, not so good.

“The people of Israel, including the priests and the Levites, have not kept themselves separate from the neighboring peoples with their detestable practices… They have taken some of their daughters as wives for themselves and their sons, and have mingled the holy race with the peoples around them. And the leaders and officials have led the way in this unfaithfulness.”

When I heard this, I tore my tunic and cloak, pulled hair from my head and beard and sat down appalled. Ezra 9:1-3

If the problem were simply interracial marriage, Ezra could have dealt with that, but marriage in those days was quite different. By marrying outside of the remnant, you inherit the family gods and practices along with it. The path can only lead back to that which stoked the wrath of God in the first place. Ezra wastes no time in dealing with this atrocity. He calls a meeting of all the leaders with a powerful requirement to attend:

Anyone who failed to appear within three days would forfeit all his property, in accordance with the decision of the officials and elders, and would himself be expelled from the assembly of the exiles. Ezra 10:8

Show up or get kicked out! That’s pretty simple.

The great assembly met and all but four agreed to separate from the foreigners. The complex investigation is completed and those who were specifically guilty are listed for inspection, including Eliashib from the musicians.

Ezra was a devoted disciple of Moses, one who worked hard to uphold the law and embrace the Lord as he understood. A powerful priest who no doubt was great at discerning God’s will for the people, but not an architect or construction supervisor. For that, we look to Nehemiah.

The church at large has much to learn from Ezra. The one thing I take from this is to know your strengths and work within that which you are specifically gifted. Understand that the Lord can move in mighty ways and is not limited by individuals, but the Spirit gives gifts for a reason and His timing is always better than our plans. Lord, helps us to lean on you more today than yesterday, to hear your voice above all the noise of this world!

 

 

*Reference: http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/1827-artaxerxes-i

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Esther Part 3: Mordecai

Read: Esther 8-10

As we conclude the book of Esther this morning, I’m reminded that we at a point in Jewish history where they are about to return to Jerusalem from exile. We don’t see those words in Esther, but the hope written in the prophets and spoken to one another in captivity must have been on their minds. They held onto the belief that one day they would return.

Here are some highlights from chapter 8:

And Mordecai came into the presence of the king, for Esther had told how he was related to her. The king took off his signet ring, which he had reclaimed from Haman, and presented it to Mordecai. And Esther appointed him over Haman’s estate. Esther 8:1-2

Now write another decree in the king’s name in behalf of the Jews as seems best to you, and seal it with the king’s signet ring—for no document written in the king’s name and sealed with his ring can be revoked.” They wrote out all Mordecai’s orders to the Jews, and to the satraps, governors and nobles of the 127 provinces stretching from India to Cush.Esther 8:8,9

The king’s edict granted the Jews in every city the right to assemble and protect themselves; to destroy, kill and annihilate the armed men of any nationality or province who might attack them and their women and children, and to plunder the property of their enemies. Esther 8:11

When Mordecai left the king’s presence, he was wearing royal garments of blue and white, a large crown of gold and a purple robe of fine linen. And the city of Susa held a joyous celebration. Esther 8:15

What a change of events!! Queen Esther shows her adept skills inside the palace and Mordecai proves himself to be a national-level leader for the Jews while still in exile under Xerxes. From sackcloth and ashes to royal garments, Mordecai’s role is firmly established. Truly an amazing turn of events.

Chapter 9 records the successful implementation of the edicts–the Jews won the day over their adversaries. It’s interesting to note that three times we read, “they did not take the plunder” (Esther 9:10,15,16). They defended themselves, were victorious in battle, but they were not looking to steal from their captors. My initial thought on this is they truly thought the return from exile was imminent and didn’t want or need a bunch of stuff to hold them back. At the same time, they wanted to prove themselves worthy by not wanting to appear greedy.

Mordecai established the Feast of Purim:

the time when the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration. He wrote them to observe the days as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor. Esther 9:22

Queen Esther confirmed the celebration to affirm the words from Mordecai the Jew. Quite the duo.

So Queen Esther, daughter of Abihail, along with Mordecai the Jew, wrote with full authority to confirm this second letter concerning Purim. Esther 9:29

Ending on a high note:

Mordecai the Jew was second in rank to King Xerxes, preeminent among the Jews, and held in high esteem by his many fellow Jews, because he worked for the good of his people and spoke up for the welfare of all the Jews. Esther 10:3

The stage is set for the return from exile, not that this will be easy, but this story must have fueled the hope that was spreading among the Jews.

I can’t begin to imagine what it’s like to live in exile, to be under martial law, being subjected by an overlord that is bent on annihilation of me and my brothers and sisters in Christ. This is what it must feel like for the underground Christian churches in Eastern Europe, China, India, etc.

It’s hard to believe that from 1933 to 1945 some six million Jews were rounded up, tortured and murdered under the authority of Hitler. Hard to believe, but true. Haman’s hate lives in dark places within some who have bought into the lies of the great deceiver.

We are not held in concentration camps in this country, but I wonder if that’s what it takes to ignite the flame of Christ in our eyes, in our words and our daily activity. Lord, help us to take advantage of the freedom we enjoy to spread the Gospel, the Great News of salvation and healing in a land that is darker than we want to admit.

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Esther Part 2b: Unexpected Resolution

Read: Esther 5-7

For us, the end of this story is no surprise, but for Esther and Mordecai, they had no idea of how this would play out. ODB this morning left me with this perspective as I prepare to breathe in the Word from Esther:

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen,
but on what is unseen,
since what is seen is temporary,
but what is unseen is eternal.
2 Corinthians 4:18

Esther, along with many Jews, prayed and fasted, but the task remained with Esther, she was the one who needed to step into the king’s court, the burden fell on her to step out on faith, the unseen.

Then the king asked, “What is it, Queen Esther? What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given you.” Esther 5:3

As I thought about this encounter with Xerxes, I wondered what he must have been thinking. Years ago at this point, he was supremely stupid in his treatment of Vashti and as a result he lost his favored queen. It seems he didn’t want to do this again. Esther was beautiful, intelligent, poised, etc., everything he could want in a queen. Perhaps he’s getting a bit older and realizes he doesn’t want to go through the whole select-a-queen game again. Whatever the case, the result is more than favorable as the story unfolds.

Esther has a plan, she didn’t just pray for God to miraculously do something, she came to the throne room with a plan, with patience and with faith. She’s prepared a feast with exclusive invitations for the king and Haman. They enjoy some wine together (not the endless faucet like the first celebration) and Esther asks the king and Haman to come to another feast tomorrow. This lights Haman’s pride and ego beyond Esther’s wildest expectations.

In his pumped up state, Haman sees Mordecai and whines to his friends and family. Their suggestion is to have him impaled on a very high pole for all the world to see. Haman loves the idea and the work begins.

Pause for a moment and imagine the pride and arrogance of Haman, how this attitude affected his judgment. Often I think of Haman as a pompous idiot that glanced at every mirror and stuck his nose up at any underling, but he didn’t get selected for his position by accident. He wasn’t the son of Xerxes and he wasn’t forced on the king. He earned his position, but that did not prevent him from having an ego and pride bigger than Susa.

I’m compelled to ask: is there a hint of Haman in me? Have I worked hard to get to a position that is recognized by my family and friends as one which demonstrates how well I have done? Have I reached the top rung of the ladder only to beg the world to see me? Maybe not so audacious as Haman, but Lord I pray that I would not have a hint of Haman in my life!

Esther must have perceived this and effected a plan that fed the ego like gas on a fire.

Meanwhile, Xerxes cannot sleep after banquet one, so what better way to get to sleep than by having someone read chronicles! To his surprise, he learns that Mordecai was never properly honored for uncovering the assassination attempt, so now it’s the king’s turn to stoke Haman’s ego:

When Haman entered, the king asked him, “What should be done for the man the king delights to honor?” Esther 6:6

Haman, thinking only of himself, devises a grand plan to honor “the man.” When he discovers it is Mordecai that is to be honored, he plays his part, but obviously this is a horrible scene for Haman. In the meantime, the stage gets set for Mordecai’s ascent to prominence. The guy that sits at the gate in the presence of Haman, who put on sackcloth and ashes and wailed at the edict to eradicate the Jews–suddenly this guy is being paraded through town and proclaimed “honorable” by the king. In my mind, Mordecai accepts his position in the parade, but doesn’t gloat over Haman and didn’t ask the king to mint coins with his face or name. That, all by itself, would be hard to do. Mordecai’s humility and boldness are hard to appreciate, but somehow he straddles the two extremes.

Haman, on the other hand, is now completely out of his mind, but before he knew it, he was being rushed back to the palace for another banquet with the king and queen.

The king asks Esther for her request (again):

Then Queen Esther answered, “If I have found favor with you, Your Majesty, and if it pleases you, grant me my life—this is my petition. And spare my people—this is my request. For I and my people have been sold to be destroyed, killed and annihilated. Esther 7:3-4

Her patience, prayer and poise all payoff as she points the finger at Haman for his plan for genocide.

The king got up in a rage, left his wine and went out into the palace garden. But Haman, realizing that the king had already decided his fate, stayed behind to beg Queen Esther for his life. Esther 7:7

Xerxes goes out to clear his mind. How could his trusted right hand man do such a thing? How could he miss the signs? He remembers Haman’s petition about “those people,” but didn’t know they were Esther’s people, so now he is really stuck. Xerxes may have had some plan in mind, but when he returns and finds Haman grabbing Esther, all bets are off!

Haman was falling on the couch where Esther was reclining. The king exclaimed, “Will he even molest the queen while she is with me in the house?” Esther 7:8

One of the attending eunuchs is quick to point out that Haman has erected a pole to impale Mordecai and the king’s rage turns into resolution.

The king said, “Impale him on it!” So they impaled Haman on the pole he had set up for Mordecai. Then the king’s fury subsided. Esther 7:9-10

It’s so easy to read a short narrative and see the unexpected plot twist at the end without giving it a second thought. It’s much harder to step out in faith without knowing what tomorrow will bring. We know God is sovereign and can save us from whatever fiery furnace that lies ahead, but he is not obligated to do our bidding. He simply asks us to believe his plan is better than our plan.

May we have the courage to step out completely on faith today. May the testimony of our lives, our humility and faith, be a beacon to those who are far from Christ and may we have words and actions to lead them to you Lord, our rock and our redeemer.

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Esther: Part 2a – Plots, Deception, Risks and Faith

Read: Esther 2:19-4:17

With Ether’s role now established, the stories begin to unfold: plots, deception, risks and faith.

To set the stage, we’re given a sound-bite story about Mordecai overhearing a plot to assassinate King Xerxes. We actually learn a lot in just three verses, verse 22 in particular:

But Mordecai found out about the plot and told Queen Esther, who in turn reported it to the king, giving credit to Mordecai. Esther 2:22

Some observations:

  1. Mordecai’s presence at the king’s gate was so common that the conspirators didn’t think twice about him overhearing their conversation
  2. Mordecai had access to Queen Esther
  3. Esther had learned how to communicate with the king, no doubt some complex royal protocol
  4. When she made her report, Mordecai’s name didn’t surprise anyone

Sitting at the king’s gate may not be as trivial as it looks. Looking at various translations, it appears that after Daniel interpreted Nebuchadnezzar’s dream in Daniel 2, he took his place at the king’s gate (Daniel 2:49) while Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego served elsewhere in the king’s administration. Interesting.

Chapter 3 begins with Haman being promoted above other nobles (without any particular reason). Back at the king’s gate, everyone bows down to honor Haman–with the notable exception of Mordecai. This wasn’t a one-time event, Mordecai was continuously defiant.

Day after day they spoke to him but he refused to comply. Therefore they told Haman about it to see whether Mordecai’s behavior would be tolerated, for he had told them he was a Jew. Esther 3:4

Can you imagine the pressure? In my mind I see dozens of people bowing as Haman passes while one guy stays standing, perhaps not even paying attention to the mighty Haman. The NIV Study Bible notes suggest Haman is from the Amalekites and therefore the descension is the result of historical roots. This perspective helps to understand Haman’s response and perhaps the reason why he let it go on for “day after day” to reinforce his rationale that Mordecai disobedience and the need for such a visceral response.

All of this is necessary to the main theme in Esther and it’s important to note that these few verses encompass years, not days or even weeks. The book of Esther begins as Xerxes celebrates his reign in his third year. By this time (Esther 3:7), we are in the twelfth year — some nine years later!  As I look deep at the sub-themes in the text, the story takes on many dimensions and becomes very real as the drama unfolds.

Then Haman said to King Xerxes, “There is a certain people dispersed among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom who keep themselves separate. Their customs are different from those of all other people, and they do not obey the king’s laws; it is not in the king’s best interest to tolerate them. Esther 3:8

Haman was patient in establishing himself as trustworthy to Xerxes and sets the date for execution some 11 months in advance. All indications that this is a well conceived, methodical plan to rid the king of the infestation of “a certain people” and not an emotional response to a mere Jew not bowing down to Haman.

This should give us some insight into Satan’s playbook, the schemes that are designed to trap us, to turn governments against Christians and churches. It’s difficult to appreciate the tenacity because the text is so brief, but worth pausing a moment and considering how the plans are carefully constructed.

Torn robes, sackcloth and ashes became the wardrobe for Mordecai and many Jews throughout the land. Loud wailing was heard in the city. This was not suppressed by any stretch of the imagination — everyone must have known! CNN would have run 15-second soundbites for days.

Through couriers, Mordecai gets the words to Esther (he couldn’t see her while dressed in sackcloth) and asks her to appeal to the king. She’s learned a lot about royal protocol and responds:

any man or woman who approaches the king in the inner court without being summoned the king has but one law: that they be put to death unless the king extends the gold scepter to them and spares their lives. Esther 4:11

Mordecai’s response is one we’ve heard many times, so significant to remember as we go about doing the work of Christ even today:

“Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Esther 4:13-14

The pressure is on Esther and her response is to have everyone fast and pray for three days to build up support. In my mind, this was not a delay tactic or in any way some hope that this would pass. Far too many gears are in motion at this point, Esther knows this will happen if she doesn’t do something.

When this is done, I will go to the king,
even though it is against the law.
And if I perish, I perish.
Esther 4:16

Almighty and Sovereign Lord, I pray that we would have the courage to see the giants in front of us and pray this prayer–and if I perish, I perish.

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Esther: Part 1

Read: Esther 1:1-2:18

Before we get back to Ezra and Nehemiah, let’s pause and consider what’s happening back in the citadel of Susa, the mighty throne of King Xerxes. In Ezra 4, we read about the opposition writing letters to Xerxes and Artaxerxes, so it seems that Esther fits neatly around this point in Ezra’s narrative. Let’s begin the story of Esther as Xerxes celebrates the wonder of himself.

King Xerxes is throwing a serious party to celebrate his third year in power over a vast empire. This was to be a party no one would forget! After 180 days of showing off his accumulated wealth, he began the week of wine and entertainment with no limitations:

By the king’s command each guest was allowed to drink with no restrictions, for the king instructed all the wine stewards to serve each man what he wished. Esther 1:8

After seven days, the wine begins to speak within Xerxes and he commands his eunuchs to have Queen Vashti presented before his guests. The idea seems right to the man who’s had a week of drinking, but Vashti is not interested in being paraded in front of a group of men who have been partying for a week.

The king is outraged and asks his nobles for an appropriate response. My guess is that these nobles have been enjoying the party along with the king, so their response is probably not the best, but here you have their basis for action:

This very day the Persian and Median women of the nobility who have heard about the queen’s conduct will respond to all the king’s nobles in the same way. There will be no end of disrespect and discord. Esther 1:18

An edict with two provisions is sent out to the land, a law that cannot be repealed, whatever that really means:

  1. Vashti is never again to enter the presence of King Xerxes (Esther 1:19)
  2. every man should be ruler over his own household, using his native tongue (Esther 1:22)

My guess is #1 was for the king and #2 was primarily for the rest of the nobles.

After the wine wears off, the king has one of those moments where he realizes the above was a dumb idea, but he’s the king, so he can’t let anyone know! Vashti was most beautiful and is now outlawed from coming to him. In his brilliant mind, the next best thing is to have a beauty contest and find someone to replace her.

Esther was caught up in the collection of beautiful virgins.

Esther also was taken to the king’s palace and entrusted to Hegai, who had charge of the harem. She pleased him and won his favor. Esther 2:8-9

My guess is that Mordecai, the adoptive parent of Esther, gave her this advice as she was taken:

Esther had not revealed her nationality and family background, because Mordecai had forbidden her to do so. Esther 2:10

Esther played her part well, did what Hegai suggested, complied with all the beauty treatments, etc., and was finally presented to the king:

Now the king was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women, and she won his favor and approval more than any of the other virgins. So he set a royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti. Esther 2:17

And so, Queen Esther is established. Let the story begin!

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Zechariah’s Song

Read: Zechariah 7-14

Zechariah has all kinds of words of encouragement, a song to sing for all to hear and be glad. He spends little time on past sins (thankfully), focuses on joy and laughter, then paints a picture of the future to give us all great hope.

Two years into the reign of King Darius, Zechariah speaks again to get the attention of God’s people:

“Ask all the people of the land and the priests, ‘When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months for the past seventy years, was it really for me that you fasted? And when you were eating and drinking, were you not just feasting for yourselves? Zechariah 7:5-6

Those people in that day refused to truly turn their hearts to God, they only did what appeared to be righteous, but their hearts were set on selfish desires and personal gain.

“‘When I called, they did not listen; so when they called, I would not listen,’ says the Lord Almighty. Zechariah 7:13

Oh wait, “they” are “us!” Zechariah is speaking to the people of that time about their actions, but repentance is only a word away. The Lord is jealous for his people, he longs for the day of restoration. I love the picture he paints here:

This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Once again men and women of ripe old age will sit in the streets of Jerusalem, each of them with cane in hand because of their age. The city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there.” Zechariah 8:4-5

Peace will prevail. One day the streets will be filled with laughter as we sit and watch our children’s children play without concern. What can we do to see this dream become real?

These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment in your courts; do not plot evil against each other, and do not love to swear falsely. I hate all this,” declares the Lord. Zechariah 8:16-17

Love each other. Be truthful and kind. Stop being so self-centered! Zechariah keeps it real and simple: “love truth and peace” (Zechariah 8:19).

I dream of a place where we gather as a people of God with clean hands and pure hearts, with such love that the world sees our family, the true brotherhood of saints, and longs to be part of this thing we call church.

This is what the Lord Almighty says: “In those days ten people from all languages and nations will take firm hold of one Jew by the hem of his robe and say, ‘Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.’” Zechariah 8:23

Stop for a moment and image the day when ten people surround you and beg you to tell them about Jesus, not the other way around! It seems that we try to convince people that Jesus is real, that there is one who came to save us, that we needed to be saved–on and on we speak such words, but our actions don’t match our language. What if we simply committed to doing what Jesus said? What if we loved God with all our heart, soul, strength and mind? And what if we loved our neighbors as ourselves? I don’t know how this looks for every person in every situation, but I am convinced that when we love as Christ loved, people from all around us will ask us how they can become a part of our family, our church.

Zechariah continues to provide encouragement, pouring on words of assurance. After years in exile, lost and far away from the Promised Land because of the failures of their ancestors, the Lord will reclaim his people. The rest of the narrative gives us all hope for the day when Jesus will return and all will be set right. Here are some verses I found encouraging:

But I will encamp at my temple
to guard it against marauding forces.
Never again will an oppressor overrun my people,
for now I am keeping watch.
Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion!
Shout, Daughter Jerusalem!
See, your king comes to you,
righteous and victorious,
lowly and riding on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a donkey.
Zechariah 9:8-9

From Judah will come the cornerstone,
from him the tent peg,
from him the battle bow,
from him every ruler.
Zechariah 10:4

They will pass through the sea of trouble;
the surging sea will be subdued
and all the depths of the Nile will dry up.
Assyria’s pride will be brought down
and Egypt’s scepter will pass away.
I will strengthen them in the Lord
and in his name they will live securely,”
declares the Lord.
Zechariah 10:11-12

They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son. Zechariah 12:10

“On that day a fountain will be opened to the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and impurity. Zechariah 13:1

On that day there will be neither sunlight nor cold, frosty darkness. It will be a unique day—a day known only to the Lord—with no distinction between day and night. When evening comes, there will be light. On that day living water will flow out from Jerusalem, half of it east to the Dead Sea and half of it west to the Mediterranean Sea, in summer and in winter. Zechariah 14:6-8

Receive these words of assurance: one day the Lord will make all things new. We are on the winning team. The gospel we preach has the power to save. May our lives reflect this truth and may the light of Christ shine bright for all to see.

I’m stuck on Zechariah 8:23, can’t wait to see that day!

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Project Stalled — Prophets Step In

Read: Ezra 5-6, Haggai 1-2 and Zechariah 1-6

We left the story at the point where it appears the opposition has won, the work in Jerusalem came to a halt. Does that read like an ancient headline or a text you just received?

Now Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the prophet, a descendant of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them. Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Joshua son of Jozadak set to work to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. And the prophets of God were with them, supporting them. Ezra 5:1-2

The first words of Haggai are stern and strong:

“You expected much, but see, it turned out to be little. What you brought home, I blew away. Why?” declares the Lord Almighty. “Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with your own house. Haggai 1:9

Zerubbabel and Joshua received the message well, they heard the word of the Lord through Haggai and as a result blessings flowed upon them for the sake of Jerusalem and for God’s glory.

Then Haggai, the Lord’s messenger, gave this message of the Lord to the people: “I am with you,” declares the Lord. Haggai 1:13

Those four words, “I am with you,” are perhaps the most powerful words anyone in ministry can possibly hear. When the Lord speaks these few words over your ministry, the world stands still. We know that if God is with us, there is absolutely nothing that will stand in the way–nothing!

A month later, Haggai speaks more words of encouragement for Zerubbabel and Joshua,

But now be strong, Zerubbabel,’ declares the Lord. ‘Be strong, Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘and work. For I am with you,’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘This is what I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt. And my Spirit remains among you. Do not fear.’ Haggai 2:4-5

Seriously folks, these are the words I long to hear, be strong, for I am with you and do not fear. Enough said, let’s go out and do God’s work with all our might!

Zechariah joins in with Haggai to speak truth and provide amazing encouragement:

‘Return to me,’ declares the Lord Almighty, ‘and I will return to you,’ says the Lord Almighty. Do not be like your ancestors, … “Then they repented and said, ‘The Lord Almighty has done to us what our ways and practices deserve, just as he determined to do.’”
Zechariah 1:3-4,6

Zechariah 2, A Man With A Measuring Line, tells the Israelites to leave Babylon, to come home!

“Shout and be glad, Daughter Zion. For I am coming, and I will live among you,” declares the Lord. Zechariah 2:10

Joshua is given new clothes and a turban in Zechariah 3–blessed and called by God to lead the people from exile.  Then Zerubbabel is blessed in chapter 4:

“This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty. “What are you, mighty mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become level ground. Then he will bring out the capstone to shouts of ‘God bless it! God bless it!’” Zechariah 4:6-7

Wow! Such amazing words of encouragement! Yesterday, call me weird, but I read aloud the two chapters of Haggai and most of Zechariah as if preaching a sermon. There are days, even months, when we need to hear such stirring words. The Spirit of God is not idle.

Zechariah 5 depicts evil being purged from Jerusalem, the iniquity of the people is removed from the land. Joshua is crowned as king in Zechariah 6, he will be a priest on the throne and there will be harmony between priests and rulers.  We’ll pick up with chapter 7 a bit later as it jumps ahead a few years.

And so, with those words of assurance, the story in Ezra 5 picks up the pace and a bold letter is written to King Darius to search his records and see that the rebuilding project was indeed sanctioned by his predecessor.

Then let the king send us his decision in this matter. Ezra 5:17

Not only did King Cyrus authorize the rebuilding, he offered to fund it!

Their expenses are to be fully paid out of the royal treasury, from the revenues of Trans-Euphrates, so that the work will not stop. Ezra 6:8

Punishment for disobeying this command:

Furthermore, I decree that if anyone defies this edict, a beam is to be pulled from their house and they are to be impaled on it. And for this crime their house is to be made a pile of rubble. Ezra 6:11

There’s nothing like a story with a happy ending:

So the elders of the Jews continued to build and prosper under the preaching of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah Ezra 6:14

As we seek ways to build God’s kingdom here on earth, I pray for such clear and bold prophecy. Those returning from exile were not wrong, it just looked like it from the reaction of those who did not want them to succeed. They were on the right path, but they needed to hear the message from God through Haggai and Zechariah and they did not disappoint the leaders! Lord, show us our iniquities, pack them up in a box and ship them to Babylon, wherever that is these days! Show us clearly what you would have us do this day for your purpose.

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Ezra: Return from Exile, Rebuilding Begins and Opposition Mounts

Read: Ezra 1-4

Finally, the remnant are able to return from exile, but this is just the beginning. Those who have occupied the land are not interested in seeing the Israelites succeed. Sound like a familiar scenario?

the Lord moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his realm and also to put it in writing: “This is what Cyrus king of Persia says: “‘The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth and he has appointed me to build a temple for him at Jerusalem in Judah. Any of his people among you may go up to Jerusalem in Judah and build the temple of the Lord, the God of Israel, the God who is in Jerusalem, and may their God be with them.
Ezra 1:3

Chapter 2 provides a list that shows the count of men from various families, priests, Levites, musicians, gatekeepers, temple servants and others that returned from exile. Even some that were excluded because they couldn’t find proper documentation.

It’s interesting to me that the musicians are distinguished whenever we see these lists. There is something about music that draws people to God. Not a large number, but they must have been important enough to be listed separately (along with the gatekeepers).

The priests, the Levites, the musicians, the gatekeepers and the temple servants settled in their own towns, along with some of the other people, and the rest of the Israelites settled in their towns. Ezra 2:70

They took seven months to get settled, then gathered to worship. They were afraid of those who surrounded them, but with the leadership of Joshua and Zerubbabel, the sacrificial system was restarted:

Then Joshua son of Jozadak and his fellow priests and Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and his associates began to build the altar of the God of Israel to sacrifice burnt offerings on it, in accordance with what is written in the Law of Moses the man of God. Ezra 3:2

Building an altar and sacrificing to God was not trivial in that time. There were plenty of eyes from not-so-friendly neighbors watching them closely. We definitely get that sense these days when we’re launching or relaunching a church. Non-profits don’t want competition for their space, though they may never come forward and say as much, they all know donor contributions are a limited resource.

Perhaps this is why Joshua and Zerubbabel waited for seven months before they began the rebuilding project. The foundation is reestablished and the pent-up excitement of the people cannot be withheld any longer!

With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord:
“He is good; his love toward Israel endures forever.”
Ezra 3:11

The youth had heard all the stories of old their entire lives, now they get to be a part of this incredible moment!

But many of the older priests and Levites and family heads, who had seen the former temple, wept aloud when they saw the foundation of this temple being laid, while many others shouted for joy. No one could distinguish the sound of the shouts of joy from the sound of weeping, because the people made so much noise. And the sound was heard far away.
Ezra 3:12-13

The oldest of the elders still remember the day when they worshipped freely. Those memories come rushing in and overtake them. It’s hard to imagine the elation and excitement in this country where we live in opulence. Where we decide what channel to watch, what diet we choose, etc. Freedom is not fully understood without the absence of the same. Lord, I pray we learn without imprisonment!

Opposition is Mounting

Why is it that someone’s joy and excitement stirs up jealousy in others? What is this part of the fallen nature of humanity? In chapter 4, the people around Jerusalem, those not part of the chosen families, show up to join in the festivities, but their hearts are bent on trouble.

But Zerubbabel, Joshua and the rest of the heads of the families of Israel answered, “You have no part with us in building a temple to our God. We alone will build it for the Lord, the God of Israel, as King Cyrus, the king of Persia, commanded us.” Then the peoples around them set out to discourage the people of Judah and make them afraid to go on building. Ezra 4:3-4

More than just discouraging the people, they were actively seeking to derail progress:

They bribed officials to work against them and frustrate their plans during the entire reign of Cyrus king of Persia and down to the reign of Darius king of Persia. Ezra 4:5

These people appealed to Artaxerxes with misinformation about the purpose of our ancestors, calling them wicked and rebellious people, trying to avoid paying him taxes, dishonoring the king, etc.

We inform the king that if this city is built and its walls are restored, you will be left with nothing in Trans-Euphrates. Ezra 4:16

Their appeal was heard by the king’s court.

As soon as the copy of the letter of King Artaxerxes was read to Rehum and Shimshai the secretary and their associates, they went immediately to the Jews in Jerusalem and compelled them by force to stop. Thus the work on the house of God in Jerusalem came to a standstill until the second year of the reign of Darius king of Persia. Ezra 4:23-24

Hiding is not the answer. Nor is arming ourselves with weapons. This reminds me of Jesus’ words to the disciples:

“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves.
Therefore be as shrewd as snakes
and as innocent as doves.
Matthew 10:16

Our battle may not be against flesh and blood, but there are many who would love to see us fail. The key is to carefully examine all that we are doing and see the direct connection between our actions, desires and plans to the great commission and calling of Jesus. When these lines are fuzzy, I would suggest that the opposition will frustrate the best of good intentions. At the same time, I believe that if we are walking in step with the Spirit, there is nothing that can stand in our way.

Lord, may we see your plans clearly in our hearts and in our minds.

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Imagine: No Bible

Last night I was having coffee with a friend as we explored Part III, Chapter 1 of Multiply, Disciples Making Disciples. The chapter is titled: Why Study the Bible? On the surface, those of us who were raised in the church don’t even consider the question, of course we study the Bible, don’t we? Or perhaps not. As I ask the question of pastors about biblical literacy, most shudder to think someone would evaluate their congregation, much less their own staff. Here’s the reality:

we, as a church, don’t study the Bible.

Chronologically, through this blog, we’re about to read the last books of the Old Testament, Ezra, Haggai & Zechariah, Nehemiah, Esther and Malachi. But before we venture into these books, I want you to imagine there is no Bible to explore the histories and prophecies of old. Whether you think about this in some sort of dystopian future world where books have been banished or you enter a time machine and land somewhere around A.D. 50, just imagine you no longer have the luxury of reading the printed Word of God.

Having just read A.D. 30 and A.D. 33, my mind lands on the time when Paul was writing the church plants in his day. Our Daily Bread included this reference today:

19Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 20built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. Ephesians 2:19-22

In typical Pauline fashion one paragraph is bound to the previous thought which was built on another and under the assumption that you understood the context. So many paragraphs start with “therefore” or in this case “consequently.” We have the ability to simply zoom out and see the rest of the text, but those around A.D. 50 relied on scrolls of the prophets which few had access to and the precious words from a letter that circulated through small gatherings of people known as Christians.

This is all they had and yet they became those who held fast to God’s Word, who hungered to learn more for they heard the message and story of Jesus from people who actually witnessed his teaching, death and resurrection!

Read these words from Paul to the church in Ephesus and consider our role in the church:

10His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, 11according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ephesians 3:10-11

Bouncing through a handful of translations and the MOUNCE Reverse-Interlinear edition (whatever that means!), the church, ekklēsia, suggests that we have a responsibility to make known to the world the purpose for which Jesus Christ came and dwelt among us.

But in A.D. 55, I wouldn’t have had the ability to click a few buttons and read more. I would have had to rely on the Spirit within me to comprehend those words.

I’m such a spoiled brat! I have BOTH the Spirit within me and the Bible in a dozen translations sitting on my bookshelf! God is all around me trying to teach me his Word.

Lord, I pray that I would thirst for your word and drink it up every day. Nourish me, Lord, for your purpose, not to make me fat! Show me how to impart this incredible story to the rest of the world in whatever ways I can.

Imagine no Bible for a moment.

Now imagine you are sitting in God’s library, a room full of books and writings that seem to have no end. The smell of bound leather is all around you as you make yourself comfortable. Jesus walks in the room and looks into your eyes with care and kindness. He sits across from you and begins to speak. He tells you stories about weddings and miracles, his concern about the establishment and the lost. He’s in no hurry to leave you as he laughs and smiles and cries. He just wants to answer all of your questions if you would simply ask with a heart that desires to hear the answer. He redeems and forgives. His incredible dialogue with Peter at the end of the Gospel of John always fascinates me, words of kindness and authority:

Jesus said, “Feed my sheep…Follow me!” John 21:17,19

Now open your eyes and see God’s Word in your hands. Be strong and courageous as you go out into the world today. Make him known to everyone!

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Zephaniah

Read: Zephaniah 1-3

Unlike Amos, Zephaniah was a man from royal lineage, from the line of Hezekiah, one of the greatest kings of Judah. He spoke during the time of Josiah, another notable king in Judah’s history. Even so, his message is just as hard as other prophets–he wasn’t trying to win friends because of his heritage.

There will come a time when God will clean house completely.

Be silent before the Sovereign Lord,
for the day of the Lord is near.
Zephaniah 1:7

In other words, shut up and listen! Zephaniah has something to say and it is from the Lord. Those who have become complacent will be caught up in their ritualistic worship of idols. This is a modern message from an ancient prophet; words which reveal much pain:

“I will bring such distress on all people
that they will grope about like those who are blind,
because they have sinned against the Lord.
Zephaniah 1:17

The end of time will come suddenly, and as we’re told, without warning:

In the fire of his jealousy
the whole earth will be consumed,
for he will make a sudden end
of all who live on the earth.
Zephaniah 1:18

Chapter 1 sets the stage and chapter 2 provides a list of those nations specifically called out to repent:

  • Judah – Zephaniah 2:1-3.
    • Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, you who do what he commands.
      Seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the Lord’s anger.
  • Philistia – Zephaniah 2:4-7
    • That land will belong to the remnant of the people of Judah; there they will find pasture.
  • Moab and Ammon – Zephaniah 2:8-11
    • The remnant of my people will plunder them; the survivors of my nation will inherit their land.
  • Cush  – Zephaniah 2:12
    • You Cushites, too, will be slain by my sword.
  • Assyria (esp Nineveh)  – Zephaniah 2:13-15
    • He will stretch out his hand against the north and destroy Assyria, leaving Nineveh utterly desolate and dry as the desert.

Chapter 3 focuses on Jerusalem, the pride of the Israelites.

Woe to the city of oppressors,
rebellious and defiled!
She obeys no one,
she accepts no correction.
She does not trust in the Lord,
she does not draw near to her God.

Morning by morning he dispenses his justice,
    and every new day he does not fail,
    yet the unrighteous know no shame.
Zephaniah 3:1-2,5

They know no shame. Their effort was focused on selfish desire, all were corrupt.

Of Jerusalem I thought,
‘Surely you will fear me
and accept correction!’
Then her place of refuge would not be destroyed,
nor all my punishments come upon her.
But they were still eager
to act corruptly in all they did.
Zephaniah 3:7

Why were they so bent on corruption? Is “they” really “we?” The Lord will speak and his word will purify the lips of all peoples.

On that day you, Jerusalem, will not be put to shame
for all the wrongs you have done to me,
because I will remove from you
your arrogant boasters.
Never again will you be haughty
on my holy hill.
Zephaniah 3:11

Haughty on my holy hill…interesting. Arrogance will be stripped away. The self-serving desires of all people will be replaced with righteousness.

The remnant of Israel
will trust in the name of the Lord.
They will do no wrong;
they will tell no lies.
Zephaniah 3:12-13

This is the day we long for:

At that time I will gather you;
at that time I will bring you home.
I will give you honor and praise
among all the peoples of the earth
when I restore your fortunes
before your very eyes,”
says the Lord.
Zephaniah 3:20

 

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