Shout for Joy

Today’s Through the Bible Reading: Ezra 3; Psalm 92, 126

“And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the LORD; because He is good, for His mercy endureth forever toward Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.” Ezra 3:11

In today’s reading we see the completion of the second temple. With the final stone being laid, the young men shouted for joy, but the old men wept because the new temple did not compare with the beauty of the old one.

However, God had a plan and promised in Haggai 2:9 that the glory of the second temple would surpass the old. And it did! Right where those shouts of joy went out is the very place where our Chief Corner Stone, Jesus Christ would walk and declare salvation over 400 years later. Now the ultimate shouts of joy can go forth, for in Christ we are free from the law of sin and death.

…Behold, I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on Him shall not be confounded. 1 Peter 2:6

In the temple, sacrifices were made to atone for sin - but on Calvary the ultimate price was paid once and for all (Hebrews 10:10). God’s love endures forever (Ezra 3:11). His plans are perfect. His purposes are sure. If something in your life is being built and doesn’t look quite right compared to the old, don’t despair! God promises to take us from glory to glory (2 Corinthians 3:18). Let His Word be your daily delight and a lamp unto your feet.

Dig into His Word and expect good things, we have Jesus!

Keep Reading: Daniel 10:1-11:35

by Sharon Kaselonis / All rights reserved ©