Temple completed
Day 285, Friday, May 23
Ezra Chapter 6 – 7:10
King Darius, after finding the original decree from King Cyrus, orders his officials to provide the materials and support for the rebuilding of the temple, allowing it to be finished.
Upon completion the people celebrate with burnt offerings and installed priests and Levites for service. They also celebrated the Passover.
Now Ezra, well educated in the law and a teacher, also returns.

-Rev. Mark Fleming

Friday meditation

Proverbs 28:15-16
Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a helpless people.
A tyrannical ruler practices extortion, but one who hates ill-gotten gain will enjoy a long reign.

Prayer focus
Lord, protect us from selfish leaders, and make us generous when it is our time to lead.