Rebuilding The Temple

We have been in quarantine for a year now.

In the beginning I made long overdue repairs to my home, I cleaned out closets and drawers, and I redecorated some rooms. I even cleared out many of my books – the hardest job of all. Finally, summer was upon us and I worked in my garden, went for long walks, met friends for outdoor dining and had backyard visits with my extended family.

After gerrymandering the holidays, the winter was upon us once again. It snowed and it snowed and snowed again. I watched television, ate ice cream and chocolate. I cooked comfort foods eating heartily.

I gained nine pounds, my hair needs a serious hair cut and my nails haven’t seen a salon since December 2019. My bras sit in a drawer wondering where I went and I no longer fit into my jeans.

Today I sat with God and complained. I complained about all of the above asking his help. When I opened the Bible – it was to Ezra 6 – Rebuilding the Temple. King Darius issued a degree to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem – you know the one that was destroyed by the Babylonians when they sacked Israel. But he didn’t want the Babylonians taking part. Only the exiled Israelites were allowed to rebuild.

King Darius decreed that his treasuries would pay the costs of rebuilding and provide all the sacrificial animals if the returning Israelites would pray for his kingdom.

So, at this one-year mark of exile, I will be rebuilding my temple with better food choices, exercise and less television. I will shower, dress and yes-wear make-up every day again. I may even become reacquainted with my bras. And, I will ask the Lord to help me every step of the way. May he bless me indeed.