SOAP 02/07/2016; Ezra 6:21

Today's reading: Leviticus 4, 5, 6; Acts 14*

 

S) "²¹ The sons of Israel who returned from exile and all those who had separated themselves from the impurity of the nations of the land to join them, to seek the Lord God of Israel, ate the Passover."

Ezra 6:21 (NASB)
 *because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Ezra 6

 

O) In the midst of great celebration when the exiles returned to Jerusalem, and they had such miraculous support and protection, and the temple was rebuilt, there is a subtle hint in this verse that it was not all positive. The sons of Israel who returned... those who had separated themselves from... the nations... those phrases tell us two things. It shows us what happened for the people described. It also shows us there were people who did not fit these categories. There were sons of Israel who never returned, who never separated themselves from the impurity of the nations. In this particular instance, we don't know the details of their fates. We know that, throughout the Old Testament, various lamentations are recorded for those who would not repent, would not return to the LORD. I am sure there were great occasions for weeping, when families and friends started to take not of who was absent from that Passover.

A) There are a great many loved ones in my life who are still fully engrossed in the impurity of the nation where they dwell. I have family and friends who have never truly known Jesus Christ, and I have family and friends who have known Him, but are estranged from Him. Like the exiles of this time, whether they know what they are missing or not, the result is the same. Outside of a present and real relationship with Jesus Christ, they are lost. I rejoice every time someone comes to Christ. All the more, I rejoice when it is someone I know, who finally submits to the lordship of Christ. And, I certainly should celebrate. But, these are also solemn reminders of what is at stake. Passover is not what it once was, but in light of the gospel, it is so much more. There are many holidays, many meals, that I miss sharing with loved ones. But, there is no feast more important to share, than that of the bridegroom of heaven, when His church is fully united with Him in the end. With that in mind, I pray.

P) Father, it is such a joy to be in Your presence. Even as "filtered" as it is here, in this corrupted world. Perhaps because of that, I can imagine how amazing heaven will be. I can imagine how amazing You will be, when I am rid of this broken flesh, and I am with You in incorruptible perfection, unified with You in a way I could never comprehend. That prospect is such a pure joy to me. This is what I really want for my loved ones. This is what I really want for my brothers and sisters who are entrenched in the mire of the world. Only You can rescue them, God. Only You are strong enough, wise enough. Only You can pay for their sins. Only You can redeem them, heal them, and restore them. Every unsaved soul, every person I love who doesn't love You, God I plead with You that they would return to You. Whatever the cost, rescue them. Let Your will be done in their lives. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.