For we were slaves, but in his unfailing love our God did not abandon us in our slavery. Instead, he caused the kings of Persia to treat us favorably. He revived us so we could rebuild the Temple of our God and repair its ruins. He has given us a protective wall in Judah and Jerusalem.
Ezra 9:9
On we continue with Ezra’s prayer.
I was delighted at some recurring Hebrew verbs in this section from previous ones. Particularly that root word al – to hover over. In this verse, it is showcasing how God’s unfailing love hovered over the exiles in the eyes of the kings of Persia. Or, if written directly, “God allowed His covenant loyalty to hover over us before the face of kings.”
This matters to us right now, Believers. In the midst of political drama and racial tension and wars and violence, for God to show His hesed to His people in the sight of governing rulers is a grace. And for us to step into that public square with humility, peace, commitment to Truth, sorrow for our sins, and a desire to see God lifted high, will affect our cultural climate.
Let’s be found faithful.
And, because we cannot be reminded enough, let’s focus on that first sentence. He doesn’t abandon us in our slavery. That abandon is azab – to loose from Oneself, leave destitute, to widow.
We learned before about our responsibility to fan aflame our First Love. Here we specifically see God’s part in the equation: He will never forsake us. And aside from our personal love relationship with Him, He has other high priorities for this: so we can rum – boldly exalt, triumphantly uplift the Temple of God. The worship of Him and delight in His presence.
Yes. Let’s be found faithful.