Bittersweet

 And they sang responsively, praising and giving thanks to the Lord. – Ezra 3:11

The world has changed yet again in its perpetual spinning, making gathering with family and friends for a day of gratitude a challenge for some. A few at your Thanksgiving table this year may be celebrating with you while quietly grieving joys they have lost. 

As the ancient tribe of Israel returned from exile back to Jerusalem, the people were making a new start. Before anything else they wisely made a new altar and offered praise to God, re-establishing their historical feasts and offerings. In celebration they dedicated themselves to rebuilding God’s temple; the one King David had commissioned, and King Solomon had built. It housed the Ark of the Covenant and was covered in the shekinah glory of God. It was the centerpiece of their society and, as the enemies of God carried off His people into captivity, it had been destroyed and burned. 

As the foundation stone for the temple was put into place, it was an amazing day of celebration. Trumpets were raised and voices sang out. All except a few old men. Their voices were raised but in weeping. Theirs was a bittersweet celebration, reflective of the lost glory of Solomon’s temple and the sin that had ravaged their nation. They mourned a once vibrant house of worship, now just one stone and a promise. 

For many of your acquaintance, perhaps yourself included, life is not as it once was. Let your gratitude reveal God’s sustaining grace as the reason to gather and celebrate, acknowledging blessings both past and present. Pray for America to once again be a land of vibrant Christ-centered worship.