that the joy had not been evanescent. The feast was ordained for only one day, but 'on the second day were gathered together the chief of the fathers of all the people, the priests and the Levites, unto Ezra the scribe, even that they might instruct in the words of the law' (ver. 13, marg.) This is a verse not to be missed. The persons who came this second day were not the body of the people, but their natural leaders; and they came to be taught by the great scribe in order to their teaching others. When Artaxerxes had sent Ezra to Jerusalem many years ago, this was part of his commission: And thou, Ezra, after the wisdom of thy God which is in thine hand, set magistrates and judges who may judge all the people that are beyond the river, all such as know the laws of thy God; and teach that know them not' (Ezra vii. 25). the scribes had succeeded in carrying that into effect does not appear: possibly many a tearful prayer had been prompted in him by witnessing the prevailing indifference, and by the difficulty experienced in finding men to act as judges who either knew the law of God or ye them How far were willing to be taught. Now, at length,' there is a joyful change. The Feast of Trumpets in this year is to be a memorable one, since the rulers and priests have come to him asking to be qualified for instructing the people. One day would not suffice to give them the help they craved: We can transcribe copies of the law or bear the cost: show us how. We wish to make those under us thoroughly familiar with the divine Word: show us the best methods to use. More than one day would be thankfully spent in answering these requests. And best of allthe saving knowledge might now be expected fairly to permeate and leaven the mass of the people. Long study and unfainting prayer seem about to receive an abundant reward. How wisely, not to say dexterously, Ezra availed himself of the great opportunity, is the next feature of the story. Another feast was observed; and more joy of the Lord brought the strength required for an act of reformation decisive and resolute. 'And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations which came up against Jerusalem, shall even go up from year to year to worship the King, the Lord of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles.'-ZECH. xiv. 16. 'Now the Jews' Feast of Tabernacles was at hand. In the last, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, If any man thirst let him come unto Me and drink.'—JOHN vii. 2, 37. |