“In the first year of King Cyrus of Persia, in order that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be accomplished, the LORD stirred up the spirit of King Cyrus of Persia so that he sent a herald throughout all his kingdom, and also in a written edict declared: ‘Thus says King Cyrus of Persia: The LORD, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and he has charged me to build him a house at Jerusalem in Judah. Any of those among you who are of his people – may their God be with them! – are now permitted to go up to Jerusalem in Judah, and rebuild the house of the LORD, the God of Israel – he is the God who is in Jerusalem; and let all survivors, in whatever place they reside, be assisted by the people of their place with silver and gold, with goods and with animals, besides free will offerings for the house of God in Jerusalem.’” Ezra 1:1-4

Interesting isn’t it, that God’s grace, God’s spirit moves King Cyrus to allow Jews to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple. He admits that God is God in Jerusalem. God is God in Persia too – “the LORD stirred up the spirit of King Cyrus of Persia.” Do I, do you, recognize God as God of all? Or do I limit God to God of only those who believe? How can I keep God from moving? Better question, what am I called to do to help others realize God’s presence? Not that God needs my help, but that others do. How am I helping others become disciples, to grow in discipleship, for the good of the Kingdom of God? How am I growing as a disciple? Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful, the hearts of the unknowing, all our hearts – by the power of your grace!