He had begun his journey from Babylon on the first day of the first month, and he arrived in Jerusalem on the first day of the fifth month. (Ezra 7:9)
Expanded Passage: Ezra 7:6-10, 27-28; 8:21-23, 31-32, 35-36
There are many moments to reminisce about when a faithful servant of the Lord goes home to be with him. While their obituaries might condense decades into sentences, only loved ones and close friends will fully experience the longing for their quirks, routines, inspiring phrases, and funny sayings. Deep grief is the impact of a life well-lived. People who remained consistent in their pursuit of the Lord; who turned to him again and again when life attempted to rattle their foundations; who were quick to repent and seek forgiveness, eager to point to God’s goodness and honor; and who brought joy when heaviness threatened to overtake, truly inspire awe and thanksgiving for the way they colored their world.
Ezra was a journeying man. Not only did he faithfully travel long, hard miles to retrieve and return Israelites from exile, but he had prepared for this task over many years by living and breathing the Word of God. Ezra didn’t just observe the law faithfully, he taught others to understand and obey it too. He led by example, following the longing of his heart for the Israelites to return to God.
Building an inspiring legacy that radiates the character of God is a journey. It comprises moment-by-moment decisions and daily steadfastness, repeatedly turning to God, eager to point to his goodness and honor. And it’s never too late to begin.
Consider how your daily actions point to the Lord and inspire others.
Elizabeth Rhyno is a Wesleyan worship and discipleship pastor and entrepreneur. She enjoys helping people deepen their intimacy with the Lord and grow in their joyful purpose.
© 2026 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
