“And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the LORD; because He is good, for His mercy endureth for ever toward Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid” (Ezra 3:11).
For seventy years the children of Israel were held in captivity in the land of Babylon. But now the captives were being released and the people were coming home. One of the first things that took place was the laying of the foundation of the next Temple. I cannot begin to imagine the thrill and joy they must have experienced that day. Some of them were born in Babylon and could only hear of “their land back home.” They heard the stories of their parents and grandparents. They heard of the terrible heart-wrenching sorrow as they were told about the destruction of Jerusalem and their Temple. But that was past. Just as God had promised, the days of chastisement were completed, and they were back home. What a song service and time of thanksgiving took place!
For today: For what do have to be thankful today? Even if you don’t have a great singing voice, might I recommend to you that you sing to the LORD and give thanks to Him?!