The whole assembly together totaled 42,360, besides their male and female slaves who totaled 7,337; and they had two hundred singing men and women. Their horses numbered 736; their mules, 245; 67 their camels, 435; their donkeys, 6,720.

Some of the heads of fathers’ households, when they arrived at the house of the LORD which is in Jerusalem, offered willingly for the house of God to erect it on its site. According to their ability they gave to the treasury for the work sixty-one thousand gold drachmas, five thousand silver minas, and a hundred priestly garments.

-- Ezra 2:64-69

Reflection
This passage, as pragmatic as it may seem, speaks to us about both leadership and humility. We can be so quick to turn our minds to historical context, that we can easily miss the value of the line “the heads of the households.” We all have authority of some kind, and when we lead by example, our actions shine within their context. What was it like for the families of these leaders to see the actions of offering and devotion to the house of the Lord? Leadership is important.

So, what about humility? Turn your attention to the line, “according to their ability.” Can you imagine a group of people arriving, with a shared goal, to lay out their offerings to God? Some provide riches, others goods, perhaps some bring service. No one gives out of the same abundance, but they all give. When we walk into the Kingdom of God, we’re all called to give according to our unique abilities, no matter circumstance. Humility is important.

Where do you have the authority to lead, and what does your example show? Have you answered the call to give with humility and with grace?

-- Ed Sutter

Questions
Have you ever experienced the loss of home or country? If so , what did you take with you or what do you most miss?
When have you made a freewill offering in order to help shape a promised future?

Prayer
Lord of coins and robes, families and animals, kings and servants, your promises will not be thwarted even when we wonder why you delay in fulfilling them. Until your fulfilment, grant us such confidence in you that we keep the “priestly robes” ready and trust in you. Amen.