I've been reading through 2 Chronicles the past while.  I have probably experienced every emotion available through the journey of these kings.  Sadness at the tragedies of evil leadership, frustration at the repeated patterns of foolishness and rebellion, delight at the mercy of God on those who rediscovered "The Book" and restored temple worship and sacrifices.  I can't even grasp the depths of despair at the fall of Israel, then Judah!  Captivity!  How humiliating and degrading!  The once glorious nation of Israel under the kingship of David and the even more splendid reign of his son, Solomon became split and splintered to form sawdust blown and scattered to the far reaches of Babylon.
As I turn the page of my Bible past the last chapter of Chronicles, my eyes rest on "Ezra".  Oh, good!  I can't wait to delve into a new era, a hope-filled account of restoration and revival.
This book, and Nehemiah to follow, resonates with my heart and my reality.
Healing Hearts Ministry is about that very theme:  to wade into a community that has been damaged and nearly destroyed by choices, some personal choices and some brought to bear that are beyond the community's control.  And just as all of us who serve under the Healing Hearts banner have felt and obeyed a call to our respective communities, Ezra was commissioned by the king (of Persia) and given manpower and financial provision to "do whatever seems best" with those resources.  I am beginning to see some parallels...
With just a brief overview of the first few chapters of Ezra, I come to chapter 7 and read a geneology and character reference of the man.  Then the letter from King Artaxerxes to give permission and support to Ezra and his "ministry team" to establish worship and order in the broken nation.  I'm already anticipating eagerly the deeper things I will discover!
Yesterday, when Walter preached from Genesis 2 & 3 at Silver Heights Bible Church in Weyburn, He brought out how God was the first missionary.  When Adam and Eve brought about the separation of intimate and perfect fellowship with their Maker, God did not turn away from them and reject them.  He left His throne on high to search for them in the Garden.  He called out to Adam, "Where are you?"  (Genesis 3:9)  Generations later, God sent Ezra to His separated people.  And today, God is still sending servants to bring the Good News of restoration and healing to broken and hurting people.  The Lord has not given up on humanity.  His Word continues to promise hope.
Lord,"Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in Your law."  Psalm 119:18