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Bible story · Ezra 3:10–13; Haggai 2:1–9
The Glory of the Latter House
Read it yourself in the King James Bible: Ezra 3:10–13; Haggai 2:1–9 ↗
“The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts.”
Haggai 2:9 (KJV)The Story
After seventy years in exile, some of the Jews returned to Jerusalem and began rebuilding the temple. When the foundation was laid, the younger people shouted for joy. But the old men who had seen Solomon’s magnificent temple wept aloud. This new one was so small and plain.
The work stalled. Years went by with the foundation sitting there.
Then God sent the prophet Haggai. He spoke to Zerubbabel the governor, Joshua the high priest, and all the people.
“Who is left among you that saw this house in her first glory? and how do ye see it now? is it not in your eyes in comparison of it as nothing?”
God knew exactly how they felt.
“Be strong, all ye people of the land, saith the LORD, and work: for I am with you, saith the LORD of hosts.” “My spirit remaineth among you: fear ye not.”
Then God made an astonishing promise. “The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, saith the LORD of hosts. The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former.”
Reflection
This smaller temple never had the gold of Solomon’s. But centuries later, Jesus Himself walked into it. He taught in its courts. The glory of the second temple really was greater, because the Son of God was there.
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Day 18 of Book 8
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