The Return to Jerusalem
Ilumi Kids · Stories
For many, many years, God's people lived far from their home, in the great city of Babylon. They missed Jerusalem and the Lord's Temple, which had been destroyed, very much.
But God never forgot His people. He had a wonderful plan. God touched the heart of a very powerful king named Cyrus, the king of Persia.
After many years of exile in Babylon, God moved the heart of Cyrus, king of Persia. He announced that God’s people could return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple. Cyrus gave back the Temple treasures, the neighbors helped with gifts, and the people set out with great joy.
Where it is in the Bible: Ezra 1
God never forgets his people and keeps his promises, even using powerful kings.
After reading, use these questions to help your child remember and apply the story.
For many, many years, God's people lived far from their home, in the great city of Babylon. They missed Jerusalem and the Lord's Temple, which had been destroyed, very much.
But God never forgot His people. He had a wonderful plan. God touched the heart of a very powerful king named Cyrus, the king of Persia.
One day, King Cyrus felt something special in his heart, a desire that came from God. He wrote a message and sent it throughout his whole kingdom for everyone to read.
In the message, the king said that the Lord, the God of heaven, had given him all the kingdoms of the earth. And now, God had a very important job for him: to build a new Temple in Jerusalem.
"This is what Cyrus, king of Persia, says: The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms on earth. He has appointed me to build a temple for him in Jerusalem in Judah." — Ezra 1:2
The king's message was incredible news! He was giving permission for all of God's people to go back home. It was the answer to many generations' prayers.
Everyone who wanted to could make the long journey back to Jerusalem. Their mission was clear: to rebuild the house of the Lord, the God of Israel.
King Cyrus: Anyone among his people who wants to, may go up to Jerusalem... and may their God be with them!
And the king's kindness didn't stop there! A long time ago, another wicked king had stolen all the treasures from God's Temple. There were gold cups, silver bowls, and many other precious items.
King Cyrus ordered all these treasures to be returned. He gave them to the leaders of the people of Israel so they could be brought back to their holy place, in the new Temple that would be built.
The people's hearts were filled with immense joy! The family leaders, the priests, and everyone whose heart God had touched, began to get ready for the great adventure. They were going home!
Even the neighbors who weren't going on the journey helped. They gave gifts of silver, gold, animals, and everything else needed for the trip. It was the beginning of a new time for God's people.
