Day 213 - Read Ezra 7-8

Artaxerxes, king of Persia, sent a letter to Ezra instructing him to go to Jerusalem and to take gold, silver, and all that was given for the house of the Lord from Babylonia. He released all who desired to return to Jerusalem. Artaxerxes made a decree that all needs for the house of the Lord were to be provided. Ezra was instructed to appoint magistrates and judges to judge all the people according to the laws of God. The names and families of those who returned to Jerusalem were documented. Ezra sent for Levites who would minister in the house of the Lord. He called a fast to seek God for safe journey. The gold and silver were divided and carried to the house of the Lord successfully. Burnt offerings were presented to God.