(story told in Ezra 7:1-10:16; Nehemiah 8:1-12:36)
Ezra was a priest and scribe who devoted his life to studying and teaching God’s law. Many years after the first group of Israelites returned from exile in Babylon, Ezra led another group back to Jerusalem. He was deeply committed to helping the people renew their relationship with God by restoring worship and obedience to His Word. The journey was long and dangerous, but Ezra trusted God to protect them, choosing prayer over military guards for safety.
When Ezra arrived in Jerusalem, he found that many of the people had turned away from God’s commands. They had married foreigners who worshiped other gods, threatening Israel’s faithfulness. Ezra was heartbroken. He tore his clothes, fell to the ground, and prayed with deep sorrow for the nation’s sins. His genuine repentance moved the people to confess their own wrongdoing and renew their covenant with God.
Ezra’s greatest moment came when he gathered the people and read the Book of the Law aloud. From early morning until noon, everyone—men, women, and children—listened carefully as God’s Word was explained and translated so all could understand. As they heard it, many wept, realizing how far they had strayed. But Ezra and the leaders encouraged them to rejoice, saying, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Through Ezra’s teaching, the people rediscovered the power of Scripture. They celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles with gladness, just as God had commanded long ago.
Ezra’s story shows the importance of God’s Word in renewing hearts and guiding lives. His devotion reminds us that true change begins when we listen to God, confess our sins, and live in obedience to His truth.