Songs of Gratitude for Release From Captivity

Then the exiles who had returned from captivity sacrificed burnt offerings to the God of Israel. (Ezra 8:35)

Expanded Passage: Ezra 8:35-36

Before my sweet mother went to be with Jesus, she withstood a series of hospitalizations. Her cancer journey had been painful; chemo was quickly ruled out. Each time she was admitted to the hospital, the nursing and oncology staff did their best to treat her with dignity. She also did her best to remain grateful and keep her attitude in check. But the relief she experienced each time she returned to her home of fifty-plus years was undeniable. Returning from sterile rooms to the place where she’d raised her family with my dad was a joy she couldn’t help but express with a song of praise on her piano.

Seventy years was a long time to be exiled in Babylon. Though some had returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel eighty years earlier, thousands were still under the thumb of Babylon until Ezra was sent to bring them back. Things were bleak in both places with division, spiritual apathy, and the hard work of trying to rebuild what had been destroyed.

When Ezra led the Israelites home, they were fresh with spiritual fervor. Their gratitude for the freedom they’d gained and their long-awaited return to Jerusalem inspired their fragrant offerings to the Lord. The song of freedom for the captive released could not be contained.

I can only imagine my mom’s beautiful song when she was fully released from death into new life.

Join the song of the free, pouring out your gratefulness to Jesus.

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.