God’s Strengthening Word: Offering God Thanks and PraiseНамуна

Introduction

Ezra 6:13–22: Following the Temple’s completion, the returning exiles dedicated it to the worship of God with a joyful celebration. The reading concludes with a description of the people celebrating Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread.

Today’s Key Verse: Ezra 6:16 GNT

The people of Israel—the priests, the Levites, and all the others who had returned from exile—joyfully dedicated the Temple.

Reflect

How is the dedication of the Temple described? How did the people celebrate the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread? What brought them joy? Within your community of faith, what brings you joy?

Pray

Loving God, with joy in my heart, I worship you and daily celebrate your faithful love. Teach me to follow your commands, and each day may I give glory, honor, and praise to you. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Ezra 7:1–10: Ezra arrives in Jerusalem.