Ezra 8:21-23, 31-35
The river held a significant place for the Israelites throughout the exile story; at the river they gathered and grieved for what they had left behind, wondering if they would ever return. Now, decades later the “hand of God” has made a way for their return. The way out of this place of exile is the same way that they came in.
Without an imperial escort, the people prepared to set out on a journey of which no one quite knew all the possible dangers. They called on the “hand of our God” to go before them, to be upon them, and to deliver them from any possible enemies. And, the “hand of God” was with them.
Remember how it feels to have a hand rest upon you, guiding you along the way. Feel that weight, the heavy, yet reassuring presence that you are not alone. Even though the “hand of God” was not visible to anyone else, Ezra and the people of God held fast to this truth, God is with us.
May the hand of God be upon us today.
Author: Sarah Coker-Voigt