The One Who Weeps and Repents

 



After the decree of Cyrus, Ezra returned to Jerusalem with full royal support. Zerubbabel had rebuilt the Temple, and Ezra was prepared to preach the Word. However, he discovered a shocking reality: many Israelites had disobeyed God’s command, intermarrying with neighboring nations and turning away from their spiritual heritage.

Ezra was heartbroken to find that even the priests and Levites—those called to lead worship and teach the Law—had treated God’s Word lightly and adopted the customs of the world. In deep sorrow, Ezra wept and offered a prayer of repentance on behalf of the people.

Lord, let me be an Ezra for today. Help me to repent for the ways I have wandered from Your Word. Grant me the heart of a leader who repents on behalf of those who have drifted away, and for the sins of our nation. I confess that every great revival in history began with the repentance of one person, especially a leader. Through those who join in this heart of repentance, let us see the fruit of renewal and true spiritual awakening.

Prayer Requests

  1. For our Town: The Patten Town Manager position is currently vacant. Lord, please intervene and help our town during this transition.

  2. For Fire Victims: As our local churches take turns hosting dinners for the fire victims, we pray for their mental and spiritual health. May the church be a source of strength for them. We also pray that You provide rental housing for those in need of shelter.

  3. For Tomorrow’s Service: With heavy snow in the forecast, we ask you to overrule the weather. Grant us the blessing of being able to gather safely for worship.

  4. For Comfort: Lord, comfort Linda, who is grieving the recent loss of her sister. May she feel Your peace.

  5. For Healing: So many in our community are still suffering from illness. We ask for Your miraculous healing touch.

  6. For our Leaders: Our ministry leaders and staff are facing physical and spiritual challenges. Protect them from spiritual attacks, guard their hearts, and grant them renewed strength. Let us be prepared for the leadership retreat from 11:30 to 1:30pm on Wednesday. 

I prayin Jesus' name, Amen.

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