Ezra 8:31-36; Ezra 9:1-4
At the time of the first return to Jerusalem, Cyrus had handed over to the repatriated Jews a number of the vessels of the house of God. Ezra and his companions have not set out empty-handed either. The king and his attendants, as well as the Israelites remaining in exile, have given gifts for the sanctuary.
With this wealth which might have attracted robbers, the feeble company, without escort, (but protected by the good hand of God) has arrived at Jerusalem. Their first concern is to hand over the precious load to the priests in charge. Then "speedily" in accordance with the order they had been given (Ezra 7:17), they offer sacrifices.
Let us consider the "talents" which have been entrusted to us for the pathway (Matthew 25:15). What value do we attach to all these gifts bestowed upon us by the Lord: health, intellect, memory and above all His Word, as well as a Christian upbringing? When we reach the heavenly city, everything will be weighed and counted on the scales of the sanctuary (see v. 33 and Luke 12:48 end).
However, the return of Ezra is suddenly overshadowed by what he learns about the people. Thus we are now present at a scene of sorrow and tears.