We’ve seen in studying Ezra 1 and 2 the return of exiles to Jerusalem for the purpose of rebuilding the temple.  In chapter 3 I noticed what I’d call an Impact Statement.  “When…the people assembled as one man in Jerusalem (they) began to build the altar of the God of Israel to sacrifice burnt offerings on it, in accordance with what is written in the Law.” 

far so good.  They put first things first: worship and connecting with God.  In verse 3, it says: “Despite their fear of the peoples around them, they built the altar…and sacrificed burnt offerings on it to the Lord.”  What a picture!  The challenge of obedience. 

We often know what God wants us to do.  We even have assurance to do it by virtue of the provisions He makes.  But our fear of what people around us might be thinking often cripples and immobilizes us.  I like what it says: “Despite their fear of the people around them, they built the altar.” 

We have a choice when people around us stare at us, watching to see what we’re doing, like when we sit down to eat in a restaurant and someone suggests we pray.  Do we bow our heads in respect to God?  Are we willing to have a Bible study in a restaurant with open Bibles?  When a question of faith comes up in a conversation with unbelievers in school or in the market-place, are we willing to give an answer? 

Remember this Impact Statement: Despite their fear of the people around them, they obeyed God.