Read Ezra 3:1-6
While we don’t offer sacrifices like this today, it appears these people’s priorities were in place. They were giving their attention and showing their loyalty to the one true God. They seem intent on following the law in hopes of pleasing the God who had chosen them for the restoration project.
We can learn a lesson from these people. The text said they were meeting “with a unified purpose.” Unity seems to be lacking in our culture today. So many people focus on self and their own personal rights that the idea of unity with others is becoming rare. What does a unified purpose look like? These people were rallying around God’s call to start over.
Being unified after years of separation in Babylon shows strength and solidarity. It seems they don’t want to “get it wrong” this time. The lessons learned from years of captivity for disobedience to God have taught them well. I much prefer being in groups where we work together for a common goal. Each of us brings our gifts and abilities, and together we can watch a beautiful purpose unfold.
What a tribute to God that the people chose to rebuild the altar first. It is always good to give God thanks and praise. Psalm 34:1 comes to mind, “I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises.” With an altar in place, the people would have no excuse for not keeping their focus on sacrifice and worship.
How fitting that the first festival they would celebrate would be the Festival of Shelters, also known as “Feast of Booths.” This is the celebration that commemorates God’s gracious deliverance from Egypt. One can only marvel at how God has orchestrated a similar deliverance for those now celebrating!
Whether we have physical altars or not, we can still offer our thanks and praise to God. That should be the first thing we do. We shouldn’t have to wait until everything falls into place before we can worship. The Israelites didn’t wait for the temple to be done to give God honor and praise. They saw the importance of honoring and obeying God and made it a priority.
How are you at making your time of worshiping God a priority? You can worship right where you are at this very moment. You can honor God with the sacrifice of your time and devotion. Worship doesn’t just happen among a community of believers.
Do you have your favorite way to worship God? Maybe it’s dancing around the room. Maybe it’s singing praise songs. Maybe it’s being totally quiet so you can talk to God and listen for his response. Whatever it is – do it now!
Let’s pray: Lord, I pray for unity in this world and especially in your church. Thank you for the reminder that what’s most important is to worship you and give you honor and praise. I want to sacrifice my time to show you my love. Draw me closer to you. I long for the peace that only you can give to fill my heart. Thank you for your great sacrifice and what that means for me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
