Psalm 119:49-72; Ezra 6:1-22; Rev. 5:1-10; Matt. 13:10-17
The word from King Darius is that the work must proceed in accord with the original edict from King Cyrus and not only that, the ones who asked about the work must also provide for the work on penalty of death. The Lord has protected them from any harm planned against them and the work moves ahead to completion. The sacrifices were offered each day during construction in accord with the law and upon completion the festivals were observed with joy as only those who have been in exile could know. Those who rebuilt the temple knew a special joy as they continued in spite of opposition and all the difficulties they faced. While the celebrations do not compare to those of Hezekiah or Solomon for their lavish quantities, they are a glorious beginning.
The disciples are given visions that even the prophets did not see. The people’s ears have grown dull and their eyes dim and they have no idea the meaning of the parables Jesus teaches. The disciples, likewise, have to ask the meanings in private in order that they understand His words. It is truly a measure of the effects of the fall that we must have the Holy Spirit to guide us into truth, we cannot get there on our own. At creation we were given the ability to know and to communicate with God and we lost that ability and we lose it progressively. There are times of revival when we crave God’s presence and His Word and there are times when the Word can be utterly lost to us. If He did not desire relationship how long would it take for knowledge of Him to die out completely?
Here we see the rest of the story with respect to the Ascension of Jesus. In Acts we see Him taken up into the clouds and now we see the Lamb looking like it was slain standing between the throne and the creatures and elders. Prior to this moment there had been no one who could take the scroll and open the seals and John wept aloud for desire to see what it contained. Can you imagine anyone approaching that throne to take the scroll? The Lamb is given the scroll and heaven knows what it means. The worship that was previously given only to the one seated on the throne is now ascribed also to the Lamb who is worthy to receive the scroll for what He has done in the redemption of the creation.
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee;
Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty!
God in three Persons, blessèd Trinity!
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