The fast at the Ahava.
The halt on the banks of the Ahava lasted three days. Ezra lost no time. He viewed his company, and finding no Levites, organised a mission to induce some of them to join him. To the credit of the sons of Levi, strong as was their attachment to the silver of Casiphia, they promptly forsook it in favour of Zion. On the third day the caravan was made up; but before the journey was undertaken Ezra proclaimed a fast. Consider—
I. THE OBJECT. It was to obtain the Divine guidance and protection.
1. The adults needed this for themselves.
2. They needed it on behalf of their "little ones."
3. They needed it for the safety of the treasure in their custody.
II. THE MOTIVE.
1. He was jealous for the honour of God.
(a) That "the hand of God is upon all them for good that seek him." The king might say, "Why then do you not seek him and trust in him?" May we not say this to ourselves when we are tempted to lean upon an arm of flesh?
(b) That "his power and his wrath are against all them that forsake him." The king might reply, "Why then do you not confide your defence to him from those wicked persons who would molest you?"
2. He was jealous for the honour of his people.
III. THE ISSUE.
1. "The Lord was entreated of them."
2. The success of their journey proved it.
HOMILIES BY J.S. EXELL