Ezra the Scribe Sets Out with the King's Decree

Long ago, a little boy named Ezra loved to open the scrolls every day and learn God's word. Year after year he hid every line of the law in his heart. When he grew up, Ezra became a very special scribe, a man who knew the law well, was willing to live it out himself, and was also glad to patiently teach others. Far away in the Persian palace, King Artaxerxes wore a shining golden crown. God moved the king's heart so that he was willing to help Ezra and God's people. Ezra told the king how his people in Jerusalem needed someone to teach them the law, and humbly asked the king to let him return to Jerusalem. The king smiled, nodded, and himself wrote a decree sealed with the royal signet: "Ezra may go, and anyone who is willing may go with him!" The king also gave much gold and silver for the temple in Jerusalem, and charged Ezra to teach the law to the people, so that all of them would obey it. Ezra knelt and thanked God. Then he shared the good news with everyone. Together they packed their things, loaded the donkeys, and set out. This story tells us: a child who grows up in God's word will one day hear God's calling, and will walk a path where teaching others becomes a true mission. The gracious hand of God will lead everyone who is willing to know His word.