Ezra 2.
This chapter lists those returning from captivity to Judah and Jerusalem according to the city from which they came. “The whole assembly together totaled 42,360, besides their male and female slaves who totaled 7,337; and they had two hundred singing men and women.” (64-65). Not all of those taken captive returned. The vast majority were adjusted and content to the Babylonian lifestyles. From those who returned, some of their leaders gave willingly to support the rebuilding of God’s house. “Some of the heads of fathers’ households, when they arrived at the house of the LORD which is in Jerusalem, offered willingly for the house of God to erect it on its site. According to their ability they gave to the treasury for the work…” (68-69a). Generosity is a key ingredient to healthy leaders. All true revivals or reformation efforts are costly, so it is essential to have people of a generous heart to lead the way. To impact a congregation of God’s people and lead in generosity, it is important that quality exists in our leadership. It is an issue of time, talent, and treasure.