09/29/2026
September 29, Ezra 2
Ezra 2 gives us a long accounting of all who returned to Judah. The end of the chapter talks about how some “gave freewill offerings” (Ezra 2:68 NIV) and how they gave “according to their ability” (Ezra 2:69 NIV). It is easy to pass over these long lists of numbers and unfamiliar names. Rather than doing that, take note of the reality that not everyone went back even though God had provided them with this incredible chance to go home. Likewise, with us God gives each of us amazing opportunities, most notably, the possibility of knowing Jesus. Many people reject God’s invitations to them, but God is fully aware of each one who responds to Him. He does not overlook them. Jesus once said in Matthew 10:42 (NIV), “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” At the end of the day, God wants each of us willingly to do what we can for His kingdom, and He always will take notice of everything that we do for Him, no matter how big or small it might be.