Ezra 8:35-36 – Mission Accomplished
In a matter of a few months, Ezra has obtained permission from Artaxerxes king of Persia to gather exiled Jews and lead them back to Jerusalem, gained financial support for his enterprise, organized the expedition, made the arduous journey and brought the treasures into the Temple. The last two verses of chapter 8 demonstrate the completion of Ezra’s endeavors so far. Burnt offerings are brought for all the tribes of Israel, symbolizing the end of the time of exile. The other offerings would have included those which Artaxerxes requested be made on his behalf. Beyond this, the returning exiles delivered Artaxerxes’ messages to the governor and other officials of the Persian government in the region, who then “aided the people and the house of God.” Thus, the end of chapter 8 offers us a picture of complete success. Ezra has followed through with his instructions from the Persian king, and he has been careful to do so in a way that was also faithful to the LORD. The journey to Jerusalem is over and his mission from King Artaxerxes is accomplished.
From this part of Ezra’s testimony we can learn a valuable lesson. We have noted before that the LORD is pleased to use His earthly servants as His means of accomplishing His will. This is no less true of us, today, than it was of Ezra. When we, like Ezra, are faithful to follow through with the tasks before us in a manner that honors the LORD, we will find success in our mission of advancing the Kingdom of Jesus Christ in the world.
Questions
- How does the end of Ezra 8 offer us a picture of success?
- What lesson might we learn from this?
Prayer Points
- Pray for perseverance to accomplish the work before us.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.