Ezra 1
“Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, so that he sent a proclamation throughout his kingdom, and also put it in writing, saying:…” We often get overly concerned about political changes going on in this ungodly world around us. Yet, God moves on the most wicked of rulers to fulfill the Word of His prophets. The beginning of the restoration of His people to their inheritance began with a foreign king who reigned during their captivity. Not only did he open the door for the return to Jerusalem and rebuilding of the temple, but Cyrus financed the project and called survivors of Judah to support it also (2-4). ”Also King Cyrus brought out the articles of the house of the LORD, which Nebuchadnezzar had carried away from Jerusalem and put in the house of his Gods;…” (7) His treasurer gave careful accounting for all that was taken. We must not lose sight of God’s sovereignty and love for His people even when all seems lost. While serious consequences come to those who to disobeying God, His sovereign power and love will prevail for all who are dependent on Him.