Ezra 6:21 So the Israelites who had returned from the exile ate [The Passover Lamb], together with all who had separated themselves from the unclean practices of their Gentile neighbors in order to seek the LORD, the God of Israel.
The exiles that had come back to Jerusalem were a small group, a remnant of all those Israelites who had been taken into captivity. Their decision to leave and return to Jerusalem was not a popular one. If it were, then many more would have accepted the offer from King Cyrus. This group had a peculiar allegiance to the God of Israel. They believed that Jerusalem was God’s city. They also believed that the written Law of Moses was given by God himself to the people of their day. In returning, they believed God was gifting them this opportunity. They also believed that in returning they were given a new opportunity for life under His providential hand and in His prescribed location.
Their obedience to God extended to how they would live and worship the God of Israel. The Law of Moses prescribed that worship of Him be guarded. Only those who separate themselves from the beliefs and practices of the Gentiles or pagans could participate. Those who did were to have been followers or seekers of the Lord, the God of Israel. Together they celebrated the Lord’s “changing the attitude of the king of Assyria” so that he would assist them in the work of building the house of God.
“In reality we see that only the self-excluded were unwelcome. The convert found an open door, as had Rahab and Ruth.” (Kidner, pg.60)
As people seek God they are to give in order to get. God’s people give away their own self-interest and allow God’s will to dictate their actions and beliefs. As they submit themselves to the Word of God their lives take on new meaning and their hearts reveal a spirit induced change. To draw near to God requires that our sinful attitudes and indulgences be given up. In order to get God into your life you must be willing to give away your agenda, your self-interests and submit to Him.
