First Reading:  2 Chronicles 36:14-16, 19-23

Temple Destruction and Restoration

14-16 These short passages described the last days of the kingdom in Judea, the Babylonian exile, and the return of the faithful. The author blamed both the priests and the people for infidelity and abuse, in spite of the prophets sent to preach repentance.

19-23 In the end, the nation forced God's hand against them. And Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians. The Temple was blasphemed and destroyed. The best of the nation were taken to Babylon to serve their new masters.

But, hope was not completely lost. After 70 years (a time span that indicated fulfillment of divine will as a Sabbath rest), a new hero emerged: Cyrus the conquering Persian. He proclaimed a royal edict for the people of Judea. Israelites should return and rebuild the Temple.

Politically, this was a wise move on the part of Cyrus. As the most western province of the Empire, a strengthened Judea would faced another regional power (Egypt). By repatriating the Jews and enriching them to rebuild Jerusalem, the Persian created a defensive buffer.

Sometimes wisdom requires a view of the larger picture. Cyrus could see this vista. The Temple priests in the time of Jesus could not. One needs a selfless spirit to obtain this wisdom. The common good outweighs personal enrichment. Others' needs are sometimes greater than mine.

Look at your own life and life circumstances. When have you sacrificed personal gain for the good of others? How has this sacrifice enriched your life?