This week we begin a new study in the book of Ezra. This continues our focus on a time in history when Israel is under Persian rule but allowed to worship God, a time when they are trying to be God's people in a Godless culture. Ezra happens 22 years after the events recorded in Esther. Ezra is a prophet of God who goes to Jerusalem with a mission. Read Ezra 9:8-9 - what is his primary purpose? What does it mean to "brighten our eyes"? Ezra begins his prophecy revisiting the past, some 60 years prior when King Cyrus allowed many Israelites to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. Read Ezra 1 - what do v.1 and v. 5 have in common? What does it mean for God to stir someone's spirit and how does that relate to "brightening our eyes"? Has God done either of these things for you or through you lately?
