It took a year to read the Bible, then almost 9 months to read the Apocrypha. Now, I'm going to try to offer reflections on the Narrative Lectionary. But, I won't be posting daily--at least, for a while.

Thursday, September 10, 2015

Why did you let this happen?, a reflection on 2 Esdras 5:21-56

After the allotted seven days, Ezra began to be able to pray again. He reminded the Lord, "You are sovereign over every forest of the earth and chose one vine, one region, one lily, one city-Zion, one sheep out of all the flocks, and one people. To them, your people, you have given the law."

After reminding the Lord of these choices and gifts to Israel, Ezra then asked, "Why have you let other nations take us over, dishonor us, scatter us?"

He added, "You let other nations, nations that don't follow your instruction, to trample on us. If you really hate your people so much, you should have punished us directly."

The angel reappeared and told Ezra that he would have to wait. Ezra responded with a plea to be shown the one who was to be sent.

We still wonder why God allows bad things to happen to faithful people.

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