Forgotten Books of the Bible - Ezra 3

 

'With praise and thanks, they sang this song

to the Lord : “He is so good! His faithful love

for Israel endures forever!” Then all the people

gave a great shout, praising the Lord because

the foundation of the Lord’s Temple had been

laid. But many of the older priests, Levites, and

other leaders who had seen the first Temple wept

aloud when they saw the new Temple’s foundation.

The others, however, were shouting for joy. The

joyful shouting and weeping mingled together in

a loud noise that could be heard far in the distance.' Ezra 3:11-13 https://my.bible.com/bible/116/EZR.3.11-13

There are times in my day, I long for the past. I long for the days of childhood with no cares except where I was going to ride my bike. I long for the days playing with my good friend Dougie Seal or little league baseball or backpacking in our youth group. There are other times I sit back and praise God for the joy of being a grandparent, being retired, spending time serving the Lord, and the joy of riding my motorcycle. 

IN the middle of my thoughts of joy, I also look back and remember times of darkness, loss, and worry. As I think about today, I also feel anxiety about family issues, financial issues, ministry, and the state of our world. 

My life is a mixture of joyful shouting and weeping. The book of Ezra couldn't have stated it any clearer. Our lives are filled with the mingling of joy and sorrow. Yet, from the beginning of time, God has been with us. He walks with us, and he hears us. 

The glass is both half full and half empty. There is not just one way to look at life. Both ways are correct. I pray that each person has joy in their life that they can shout about. I pray that they feel comfortable weeping before the Lord. He wants to hear it all, and I praise him that he does listen to us with pure love. 

Scripture should have an impact on your life. How does this scripture change you?  Who can you share it with? 

One thought:  Help others know times of darkness and sadness can draw us closer to the Lord. Many people don't recognize the Lord when things are going well, they only come to him when they cry for help. Today when someone celebrates the joy in their life, make sure they know GOD should be at the center of BOTH JOY AND SORROW. He celebrates with us AND cries with us. Thank you Lord!