Ezra 10:1 While Ezra was praying and confessing, weeping and throwing himself down before the house of God, a large crowd of Israelites…gathered around him. They too wept bitterly.
What strikes me in this chapter is the availability of redemption. As a society, I don’t feel like redemption is our focus. We are more of a “three strikes, you’re out” or a “fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me” society. Sometimes redemption and second chances seem so out of reach.
Ezra 10:2 Then Shekaniah…said to Ezra, “We have been unfaithful to our God by marrying foreign women from the people around us. But in spite of this, there is still hope for Israel.”
But God…. Because of His loving kindness, “there is still hope”. Because of His great mercy, He doesn’t write us off when we mess up, no matter how badly. Because of His great love and compassion, “there is still hope.” Thank You, Jesus.
Ezra 10:3 “Now let us make a covenant before our God to send away all these women and their children, in accordance with the counsel of my lord and of those who fear the commands of our God. Let it be done according to the Law.”
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You for the reminder that You are the God of mercy, love, and compassion, that You are the God of second chances. Thank You that in the chaos and mess that is life, “there is still hope.” Help me to shine Your light, Your hope, for all to see. Draw us closer. Amen.
Ezra 10:4 “Rise up; this matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take courage and do it.”
Have a blessed day.